GAHANNA, Ohio — The City of Gahanna implemented a new measure to apply tougher punishments for distracted driving.
The city ordinance went into effect on April 3 and mainly follows what the state law enacts. It prohibits drivers from using, holding or physically supporting an electronic wireless communication device while driving. The law also allows police to immediately pull over a distracted driver if they see a violation.
Under state law, first and repeated offenses will only result in a fine. Repeated offenders under Gahanna’s ordinance could face jail time and perform community service in addition to a fine.
Gahanna’s amended ordinance breaks down as follows:
- A first offense for texting while driving is a misdemeanor and carries a maximum penalty of a $150 fine and 30 hours of community service.
- A second offense is a fourth-degree misdemeanor and carries a maximum penalty of a $250 fine, 30 days in jail and 200 hours of community service.
- A third offense is a third-degree misdemeanor and carries a maximum penalty of a $500 fine, 60 days in jail and 200 hours of community service.
- Those who are texting and driving while causing injury to another person will be charged with a third-degree misdemeanor.
- Those who cause the death of another person while texting and driving will be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor
“Distracted driving in any form can be dangerous and even deadly,” said Gahanna Police Chief Jeff Spence. “The results of impaired or distracted driving are completely preventable. No text message, email, or social media post is worth injury or death. The Gahanna Division of Police is committed to curbing this deadly trend on our roadways.”
On April 1, Gahanna Mayor Laurie Jadwin and Gahanna City Council passed a resolution to recognize the month as Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
