Fri Apr 18 10:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Tech and Tougher Fines Aim to Curb Ohio’s Distracted Driving Problem
**COLUMBUS, OH** — Distracted driving remains a significant problem in Ohio, despite new laws and technological advancements aimed at curbing its impact. In 2024 alone, 8,571 crashes were attributed to distracted driving, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. While a 2023 state law banning cell phone use while driving and subsequent enforcement have contributed to an 8% decrease in crashes, according to the Highway Patrol, and a 10% drop in cell phone use among drivers, reported by Cambridge Mobile Telematics, the fight is far from over.
Several approaches are being implemented to tackle the issue. One innovative solution is SaverOne, a phone detection system developed by Motor Supply. This system, currently used in commercial trucks and school buses, uses sensors to identify and disable mobile devices when a vehicle is in motion, proactively preventing distracted driving. Motor Supply CEO Alex Abrashkin emphasizes the system’s effectiveness in fostering safer driving habits within days of implementation.
Meanwhile, Ohio State Representative Kevin D. Miller is pushing for a stronger deterrent through legislation. House Bill 111, which he is cosponsoring, proposes increased fines for drivers exceeding the speed limit by 30 mph or more. While not directly targeting distracted driving, Miller argues that this measure, inspired by the success of the cell phone ban, will encourage safer driving behaviors by increasing the cost of reckless actions. He points to the need for drivers to understand the unacceptability of such behavior and the consequences it entails.
Despite the technological and legislative efforts, both Abrashkin and Miller agree that the number of distracted driving crashes remains unacceptably high. They stress that the ultimate goal is to save lives and prevent the devastating consequences of accidents caused by inattentive driving.
First Piper 