The Cost of Distracted Driving

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Everywhere You Look, Someone’s Driving Distracted

 

Distracted driving has become a daily reality on Ohio roads. From texting at stoplights to scrolling through apps while in motion, far too many drivers are focused on their phones instead of the road. The Cost of Distracted Driving is seen every day in these dangerous behaviors—and it’s not just teenagers. Drivers in their 30s, 40s, and 50s are frequently guilty of the same mistakes behind the wheel.

 

What the Public Sees: Everyday Encounters with Distracted Driving

 

Ask about anyone; they’ll have a story about a distracted driver. Distracted driving has become part of the daily driving experience—and it’s not just anecdotal—it’s alarming.

Some of the most common public observations include:

  • Drivers with their phones held up to their faces—scrolling, texting, or even video chatting while actively moving down the road.
  • Cars drifting across lanes or driving well above or below the speed limit often indicate that the driver is focused on something other than traffic.
  • People sitting at green lights who don’t realize it’s their turn to go until someone honks.
  • Rear-end collisions in stop-and-go traffic, caused by drivers glancing down at a phone instead of watching the road.
  • Parents are distracted by children in the back seat, or drivers are eating, grooming, or fiddling with GPS and dashboard controls.

These behaviors inconvenience other drivers and create serious, avoidable risks. They happen every single day on roads across Ohio, putting lives at risk and creating situations where personal injury attorneys are needed to fight for accident victims.

 

Understanding Ohio’s Hands-Free Law

 

In April 2023, Ohio implemented a statewide hands-free law to curb distracted driving and improve roadway safety. The law was a direct response to the rising number of crashes, injuries, and fatalities linked to phone use and other distractions behind the wheel. Automobile accident lawyers across Ohio have seen the devastating effects of distracted driving firsthand.

What the Law Says

Under Ohio’s hands-free law, it is now illegal for drivers to:

  • Physically hold or support a phone or electronic device while driving
  • Text, type, scroll, or watch videos on a phone while in motion
  • Manually dial a number, unless in an emergency
  • Use apps, stream content, or engage with social media while driving

Exceptions to the Law

Drivers are permitted to:

  • Use hands-free or voice-activated features (Bluetooth, speakerphone, etc.)
  • Use a Bluetooth earpiece in one ear
  • Touch a phone once to start or end a call.
  • Use a phone while the vehicle is completely stopped, such as at a red light or pulled over.
  • Make emergency calls to police, fire, or medical services

However, just because a behavior is allowed doesn’t mean it’s safe. Studies continue to show that hands-free use still creates cognitive distractions—meaning the driver’s mind is not entirely focused on driving, even if their hands are.

 

Enforcement and Penalties

Ohio law enforcement agencies now have the authority to pull over and cite drivers solely for using a phone while driving—this is known as primary enforcement. No other violation needs to occur first.

Penalties for violations include:

  • Fines up to $150 for a first offense
  • Possible points on the driver’s license
  • Increased fines and license suspension for repeat offenses

Despite these efforts, distracted driving remains a widespread problem. It takes more than laws to stop dangerous behaviors—it takes personal responsibility, public awareness, and strong legal advocacy when accidents occur.

 

The Three Types of Distracted Driving

 

Most people think of texting behind the wheel as the only form of distraction, but there are three distinct types, and many drivers engage in more than one at the same time:

  1. Visual Distraction – Taking your eyes off the road
    Examples: Reading a text, looking at a GPS, checking a notification
  2. Manual Distraction – Taking your hands off the wheel
    Examples: Holding a phone, eating, adjusting music, or AC
  3. Cognitive Distraction – Taking your mind off driving
    Examples: Daydreaming, phone conversations, stress, or emotional distractions

Any one of these can cause a driver to miss a stop sign, fail to react to sudden braking, or drift into another lane. But when combined—as they often are—they significantly increase the risk of a serious crash.

 

Ohio Distracted Driving by the Numbers

 

Distracted driving isn’t just frustrating—it’s a documented public safety crisis, especially in Ohio. The statistics are staggering:

  • 52,447 distracted driving crashes occurred statewide between 2022 and now
  • These crashes led to 1,567 fatal and serious injury accidents
  • In 2024, there were 4 fatalities and 40 serious injuries
  • In 2025 so far, there have already been 4 fatalities and 28 serious injuries

Despite Ohio’s hands-free law taking effect in 2023, violations continue to rise:

  • 2023: 8,905 distracted driving violations issued
  • 2024: 27,596 violations—more than triple the previous year
  • 2025 (year-to-date): 9,990 violations already recorded

These numbers tell a clear story: Distracted driving isn’t slowing down. Even with laws in place, enforcement and awareness must continue to grow. Every violation represents a driver who took a risk, and every injury or fatal crash represents a life changed forever.

 

 

Real-Life Impact: A Distracted Driver Changed Everything

 

Consider this scenario:

A 38-year-old woman was driving home from work on a clear afternoon. As she passed through an intersection with a green light, another driver coming from the opposite direction suddenly made a left turn—right into her path. The crash was violent and unavoidable.

She suffered a fractured collarbone, a concussion, and soft-tissue injuries that required months of physical therapy. Her car was totaled, she missed several weeks of work, and she continues to experience chronic pain and anxiety every time she drives. Her life changed in an instant.

The other driver—a 42-year-old man—claimed he “just didn’t see her coming.” But something didn’t add up.

When the legal team began investigating, they obtained phone records and traffic camera footage. It became clear he had been using his phone at the time of the crash—sending a text message just seconds before the collision. The distraction wasn’t just suspected—it was proven.

The case took longer to resolve because he didn’t initially admit fault. But the evidence spoke for itself. He was cited under Ohio’s hands-free law, faced increased insurance premiums, and became liable for significant damages. He ultimately had to compensate the injured woman for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term rehabilitation — the kind of outcome personal injury lawyers work tirelessly to achieve for their clients.

One moment of distraction. Lifelong consequences for both drivers.

 

Real-World Consequences

 

The ripple effect of distracted driving reaches far beyond the moment of impact. One glance at a phone, one split-second decision to answer a text or adjust a playlist, can lead to life-altering consequences—for victims, for families, and even for the distracted drivers themselves.

 

A FedEx Tragedy on the Turnpike

 

In July 2024, a FedEx driver on the Pennsylvania Turnpike caused a catastrophic crash that claimed the lives of a father and his two children. Investigators later discovered that the driver had been looking at his phone moments before the collision. This tragedy devastated an entire family and sent shockwaves through the community—all because of a preventable distraction.

Three Cars. One Distraction. Big Consequences.

 

On April 2, 2025, a driver in Thompson, Ohio, caused a three-car crash after dropping his donut while reaching for coffee. He veered off the road and struck two other vehicles. That small moment of not paying attention led to a chain reaction that changed lives.

One person had to be extricated from their vehicle and transported to UH-Geauga with non-life-threatening injuries. Another driver was treated at the scene and released. The third driver suffered serious injuries—including four broken ribs, a broken wrist, and a broken knee—and was taken to the hospital for treatment.

It wasn’t a phone, but the outcome was the same: totaled vehicles, painful injuries, and a long road to recovery for those involved.

When a distraction—no matter how minor it seems—leads to a crash, the impact isn’t small. It’s physical, financial, and emotional. And for the victims, the effects can last long after the scene is cleared.

“I Just Didn’t See Her…”

 

Too often, distracted drivers claim they didn’t see the other car, the stop sign, or the pedestrian. But more often than not, it’s not a matter of visibility—it’s a matter of attention. Drivers absorbed in their phones, GPS, or even heated conversations miss the most basic visual cues on the road.

These aren’t rare or unusual stories. They are playing out across the nation every single day.

 

The Cost of Distracted Driving: When Distracted Driving Leads to a Wrongful Death

 

In a wrongful death case caused by distracted driving, the surviving family members of the victim can file a civil lawsuit to seek compensation for their devastating loss. This type of claim is separate from any criminal charges that may be pursued. The purpose is to hold the at-fault driver financially accountable for the harm their distraction caused.

Who Can File the Lawsuit?

 

In Ohio, a personal representative of the deceased’s estate (often a spouse, parent, or adult child) files the lawsuit on behalf of eligible surviving family members. These may include:

  • Spouse
  • Children (including adopted)
  • Parents
  • In some cases, other dependent relatives

What Must Be Proven?

 

To succeed in a wrongful death claim, the estate must show that:

  • The driver was negligent, such as texting, using a GPS, or other distracted behaviors.
  • That negligence directly caused the crash.
  • The death resulted in damages, both financial and emotional, for the surviving family.
  • If the evidence of distracted driving is strong enough, the claim can include punitive damages, holding the at-fault distracted driver personally liable above and beyond any applicable insurance.

At Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault, we help gather critical evidence, including:

  • Phone records
  • Crash reconstruction reports
  • Police citations
  • Eyewitness statements
  • Traffic or dash camera footage

 

What Damages Can Be Recovered?

 

A wrongful death suit may include compensation for:

  • Funeral and burial costs
  • Loss of future income and benefits
  • Loss of companionship and care
  • Mental anguish and emotional suffering
  • Medical expenses incurred before death

In some instances, punitive damages may also be awarded if the driver’s actions were especially reckless or intentional.

How Long Do You Have to File?

 

In Ohio, the statute of limitations for a wrongful death lawsuit is two years from the date of death. Acting quickly ensures that evidence is preserved and rights are protected.

 

 

What Drivers Can Do to Be Better

 

Distracted driving is preventable. It starts with personal responsibility and a commitment to stay focused behind the wheel. Here are a few simple, powerful ways to drive more safely every day:

 

1. Put the Phone Away

 

  • Use “Do Not Disturb While Driving” mode
  • Store your phone out of reach
  • Set GPS and music before the car moves

2. Make Passengers Part of the Solution

 

  • Ask for help with texts or directions
  • Speak up if someone you’re riding with is distracted

3. Drive Like You’re Not Alone

 

This one’s simple: Don’t act like you’re the only one on the road. Every choice you make behind the wheel affects everyone around you—families, kids, pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers just trying to get home safely.

4. Stay Mentally Present

 

  • Avoid emotional phone calls or multitasking.
  • Focus entirely on the road and your surroundings.

5. Be the Example

 

Your habits influence others whether you’re a parent, friend, or co-worker. Make distraction-free driving the standard—not the exception.

 

Safe Driving Is a Choice—Make It Every Time

 

At Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault, we’ve seen firsthand how a moment of distraction can change lives forever. Whether you’re a new driver or someone with decades of experience, your choices behind the wheel matter. If a distracted driver has injured you, our personal injury attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

 

Legal Help If You’ve Been Injured—or Lost a Loved One—Due to a Distracted Driver

 

If a distracted driver has injured you, or if someone you love was killed in a distracted driving crash, you have the right to seek justice—and compensation. Working with experienced car accident lawyers can make all the difference in protecting your future.

With over 70 years of experience representing accident victims across Northwest Ohio, Southeast Michigan, and Northeast Indiana, our personal injury lawyers understand what’s at stake—and we’ll fight to protect your future.

Our legal team can help you:

 

  • Investigate the crash thoroughly, including phone records, traffic footage, and witness testimony
  • Prove driver negligence and connect it to your injuries or loss
  • File a personal injury or wrongful death claim within Ohio’s legal deadlines
  • Recover compensation for:
    • Medical bills and ongoing treatment
    • Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
    • Pain and suffering
    • Emotional distress
    • Funeral and burial expenses
    • Loss of companionship

With over 70 years of experience representing accident victims in Northwest Ohio, Southeast Michigan, and Northeast Indiana, our team understands what’s at stake—and we’ll fight to protect your future.

 

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

 

Do not wait to protect your rights if a distracted driver has impacted you or your family. Contact Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault today for a free, no-obligation consultation. There are no upfront costs, and we are not paid unless we win your case. Call us at 419-843-6663 or fill out our online form to get started with experienced personal injury lawyers and car accident attorneys serving Northwest Ohio, Southeast Michigan, and Northeast Indiana.