A new Ohio law went into effect this week…that makes it illegal to use or hold a phone or electronic device, while driving. Before, using a phone while driving was a primary offense only for juvenile drivers. It now applies to all drivers and allows police officers to pull over a distracted driver upon witnessing a violation. There are exceptions for drivers over 18 years old. They will still be able to make or receive calls via hands-free devices, including…speakerphone…earpiece…wireless headset…electronic watch…or connecting phone to vehicle. In most cases, anything more than a single touch or swipe is against the law. Adult drivers are also permitted to hold or use electronic devices while stopped at a traffic light or parked on a road or highway during an emergency or road closure. Adults and juveniles can use phones at any time to report an emergency to first responders. Law enforcement will issue warnings for six months to help educate the public. They will start issuing tickets to violators on Oct. 4. The Ohio State Highway Patrol says distracted driving has caused 60,421 crashes, resulting in 209 deaths in Ohio over the last five years.