It’s not always easy to see the effects of legislation to the good of Ohio citizens. Often the results are subtle or scattered. But a study by Cambridge Mobile Telematics shows that perhaps one 2023 law has made a noticeable difference.

When the legislature gave law enforcement the authority to pull over drivers who were using or holding electronic devices in Ohio, there was some grumbling. But most people understood it was for the best.

Now, according to a report by WCMH, the study shows Ohio drivers tap on their phones 7.2% less often than the average U.S. driver. That’s good news, but shows there is still room for Buckeye State drivers to do better.

“A moment of inattention on the road can be all it takes to cause a devastating crash,” Gov. Mike DeWine said. “Although drivers in Ohio are keeping their eyes on the road more often than the nationwide average, I encourage more drivers to put their phones down as they travel. Nothing on your phone is worth risking your life for.”

There are still plenty of Ohio drivers who need to understand that. The study showed handheld phone call rates for drivers in Ohio were only 5% below the national average, with 0.78% of their driving time spent on a handheld call.

Lawmakers who passed the law in 2023 are to be commended, as 2025 data also shows traffic deaths fell 3% from 2024 — which is the fourth straight year of decline, according to the Ohio Department of Transportation. Changes in law and attitude toward driving distracted ARE helping.

“Every time a driver chooses to put their phone down, they are making our roads safer for everyone,” said Col. Charles Jones, Ohio State Highway Patrol superintendent, according to WCMH. “While our troopers continue to see the positive impact of this law through fewer crashes, our goal remains zero.”

Follow the law, put the phone down and pay attention. When it comes to meeting that goal, let’s keep Ohio moving in the right direction.