A law that bans texting behind the wheel is headed to Gov. John Kasich’s desk.
The state House and Senate approved the legislation, making it illegal to send a text message while driving.
The law would make Ohio the 38th state to ban texting while driving.
“I think it’s good because a lot of people get into accidents,” said Randi Smith of Akron. “They get distracted. I think it’s just a good thing. We need this.”
HOW IT AFFECTS ADULTS
The new law makes texting a secondary offense for adults – similar to the statewide seat belt law – meaning, drivers can only be ticketed if pulled over for another violation.
“We don’t need them being distracted or texting, looking down like this or anything else, you know,” said Bob Yowell of Painesville. “I mean, they don’t teach that in driver’s ed. Why would they allow it to happen in our country?”
HOW IT AFFECTS MINORS
The new law has stricter rules for younger drivers. Texting while driving would be a primary violation for those under 18. Additionally, it would be illegal for minors to use any electronic device in the car, with the exception of a GPS.
“Children really need to have their focus on what’s going on the road and around them,” Yowell said. “They have enough disturbances even going on in their own cars with the music and whatever else is going on.“
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article courtesy of Fox8Cleveland.com
