COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Black Friday begins not only the holiday shopping season but the holiday rise in intersection crashes.

The Ohio Department of Transportation warns drivers to be constantly vigilant in heavy shopping corridors to avoid crashes and injuries.

Some 410 intersection crashes resulted in serious injuries during the 2011 holiday season, an 18 percent increase over the previous year. Intersection crashes rose while the overall number of crashes fell for the period from Thanksgiving to New Year's Day.

The department reminded drivers a statewide texting ban is in effect. Under the law, adult drivers face a $150 fine for texting or using email while driving. Those under 18 are prohibited from using a mobile communications device while driving.

Officials said driver distraction often plays a role in crashes.

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Online:

www.everymove.ohio.gov