(132nd General Assembly)
(Substitute House Bill Number 95)

AN ACT
To amend sections 4511.03, 4511.051, 4511.12, 4511.121, 4511.132, 4511.204,
4511.205, 4511.21, 4511.211, 4511.213, 4511.22, 4511.23, 4511.25, 4511.26,
4511.27, 4511.28, 4511.29, 4511.30, 4511.31, 4511.32, 4511.33, 4511.34,
4511.35, 4511.36, 4511.37, 4511.38, 4511.39, 4511.40, 4511.41, 4511.42,
4511.43, 4511.431, 4511.44, 4511.441, 4511.451, 4511.46, 4511.47, 4511.54,
4511.55, 4511.57, 4511.58, 4511.59, 4511.60, 4511.61, 4511.64, 4511.71,
4511.711, 4511.712, 4511.713, 4511.72, and 4511.73 and to enact section
4511.991 of the Revised Code to establish an enhanced penalty for committing a
moving violation while distracted if the distraction is a contributing factor to the
commission of the violation and to reenact provisions of law that specified that
certain electronic wireless communications device violations were allied offenses
of similar import.
Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of Ohio:
SECTION 1. That sections 4511.03, 4511.051, 4511.12, 4511.121, 4511.132, 4511.204,
4511.205, 4511.21, 4511.211, 4511.213, 4511.22, 4511.23, 4511.25, 4511.26, 4511.27, 4511.28,
4511.29, 4511.30, 4511.31, 4511.32, 4511.33, 4511.34, 4511.35, 4511.36, 4511.37, 4511.38, 4511.39,
4511.40, 4511.41, 4511.42, 4511.43, 4511.431, 4511.44, 4511.441, 4511.451, 4511.46, 4511.47,
4511.54, 4511.55, 4511.57, 4511.58, 4511.59, 4511.60, 4511.61, 4511.64, 4511.71, 4511.711,
4511.712, 4511.713, 4511.72, and 4511.73 be amended and section 4511.991 of the Revised Code be
enacted to read as follows:
Sec. 4511.03. (A) The driver of any emergency vehicle or public safety vehicle, when
responding to an emergency call, upon approaching a red or stop signal or any stop sign shall slow
down as necessary for safety to traffic, but may proceed cautiously past such red or stop sign or
signal with due regard for the safety of all persons using the street or highway.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.

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Sec. 4511.051. (A) No person, unless otherwise directed by a police officer, shall:
(1) As a pedestrian, occupy any space within the limits of the right-of-way of a freeway,
except: in a rest area; on a facility that is separated from the roadway and shoulders of the freeway
and is designed and appropriately marked for pedestrian use; in the performance of public works or
official duties; as a result of an emergency caused by an accident or breakdown of a motor vehicle; or
to obtain assistance;
(2) Occupy any space within the limits of the right-of-way of a freeway, with: an animaldrawn vehicle; a ridden or led animal; herded animals; a pushcart; a bicycle, except on a facility that
is separated from the roadway and shoulders of the freeway and is designed and appropriately
marked for bicycle use; a bicycle with motor attached; a motor driven cycle with a motor which
produces not to exceed five brake horsepower; an agricultural tractor; farm machinery; except in the
performance of public works or official duties.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.12. (A) No pedestrian, driver of a vehicle, or operator of a streetcar or trackless
trolley shall disobey the instructions of any traffic control device placed in accordance with this
chapter, unless at the time otherwise directed by a police officer.
No provision of this chapter for which signs are required shall be enforced against an alleged
violator if at the time and place of the alleged violation an official sign is not in proper position and
sufficiently legible to be seen by an ordinarily observant person. Whenever a particular section of this
chapter does not state that signs are required, that section shall be effective even though no signs are
erected or in place.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.121. (A)(1) Except as provided in division (B) of this section, any operator of a
commercial motor vehicle, upon approaching a scale location established for the purpose of
determining the weight of the vehicle and its load, shall comply with any traffic control device or the
order of a peace officer directing the vehicle to proceed to be weighed or otherwise inspected.

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(2) Any operator of a commercial motor vehicle, upon bypassing a scale location in
accordance with division (B) of this section, shall comply with an order of a peace officer to stop the
vehicle to verify the use and operation of an electronic clearance device.
(B) Any operator of a commercial motor vehicle that is equipped with an electronic clearance
device authorized by the superintendent of the state highway patrol under section 4549.081 of the
Revised Code may bypass a scale location, regardless of the instruction of a traffic control device to
enter the scale facility, if either of the following apply:
(1) The in-cab transponder displays a green light or other affirmative visual signal and also
sounds an affirmative audible signal;
(2) Any other criterion established by the superintendent by rule is met.
(C) Any peace officer may order the operator of a commercial motor vehicle that bypasses a
scale location to stop the vehicle to verify the use and operation of an electronic clearance device.
(D) Whoever violates division (A) of this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within
one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to a violation
of division (A) of this section, whoever violates that division is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth
degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded
guilty to two or more violations of division (A) of this section, whoever violates division (A) is guilty
of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
(E) As used in this section and in section 4549.081 of the Revised Code, "commercial motor
vehicle" means any combination of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating or an actual gross
vehicle weight of more than ten thousand pounds if the vehicle is used in interstate or intrastate
commerce to transport property and also means any vehicle that is transporting hazardous materials
for which placarding is required pursuant to 49 C.F.R. Parts 100 to 180.
Sec. 4511.132. (A) The driver of a vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley who approaches an
intersection where traffic is controlled by traffic control signals shall do all of the following, if the
signal facing the driver exhibits no colored lights or colored lighted arrows, exhibits a combination of
such lights or arrows that fails to clearly indicate the assignment of right-of-way, or the signals are
otherwise malfunctioning, including the failure of a vehicle detector to detect the vehicle:
(1) Stop at a clearly marked stop line, but if none, stop before entering the crosswalk on the
near side of the intersection, or, if none, stop before entering the intersection;
(2) Yield the right-of-way to all vehicles, streetcars, or trackless trolleys in the intersection or
approaching on an intersecting road, if the vehicles, streetcars, or trackless trolleys will constitute an
immediate hazard during the time the driver is moving across or within the intersection or junction of
roadways;
(3) Exercise ordinary care while proceeding through the intersection.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender

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previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.204. (A) No person shall drive a motor vehicle, trackless trolley, or streetcar on any
street, highway, or property open to the public for vehicular traffic while using a handheld electronic
wireless communications device to write, send, or read a text-based communication.
(B) Division (A) of this section does not apply to any of the following:
(1) A person using a handheld electronic wireless communications device in that manner for
emergency purposes, including an emergency contact with a law enforcement agency, hospital or
health care provider, fire department, or other similar emergency agency or entity;
(2) A person driving a public safety vehicle who uses a handheld electronic wireless
communications device in that manner in the course of the person's duties;
(3) A person using a handheld electronic wireless communications device in that manner
whose motor vehicle is in a stationary position and who is outside a lane of travel;
(4) A person reading, selecting, or entering a name or telephone number in a handheld
electronic wireless communications device for the purpose of making or receiving a telephone call;
(5) A person receiving wireless messages on a device regarding the operation or navigation of
a motor vehicle; safety-related information, including emergency, traffic, or weather alerts; or data
used primarily by the motor vehicle;
(6) A person receiving wireless messages via radio waves;
(7) A person using a device for navigation purposes;
(8) A person conducting wireless interpersonal communication with a device that does not
require manually entering letters, numbers, or symbols or reading text messages, except to activate,
deactivate, or initiate the device or a feature or function of the device;
(9) A person operating a commercial truck while using a mobile data terminal that transmits
and receives data;
(10) A person using a handheld electronic wireless communications device in conjunction
with a voice-operated or hands-free device feature or function of the vehicle.
(C)(1) Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, no law enforcement officer shall
cause an operator of an automobile being operated on any street or highway to stop the automobile
for the sole purpose of determining whether a violation of division (A) of this section has been or is
being committed or for the sole purpose of issuing a ticket, citation, or summons for a violation of
that nature or causing the arrest of or commencing a prosecution of a person for a violation of that
nature, and no law enforcement officer shall view the interior or visually inspect any automobile
being operated on any street or highway for the sole purpose of determining whether a violation of
that nature has been or is being committed.
(2) On January 31 of each year, the department of public safety shall issue a report to the
general assembly that specifies the number of citations issued for violations of this section during the
previous calendar year.
(D) Whoever violates division (A) of this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor.

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(E) This section shall not be construed as invalidating, preempting, or superseding a
substantially equivalent municipal ordinance that prescribes penalties for violations of that ordinance
that are greater than the penalties prescribed in this section for violations of this section.
(F) A prosecution for a violation of this section does not preclude a prosecution for a
violation of a substantially equivalent municipal ordinance based on the same conduct. However, if
an offender is convicted of or pleads guilty to a violation of this section and is also convicted of or
pleads guilty to a violation of a substantially equivalent municipal ordinance based on the same
conduct, the two offenses are allied offenses of similar import under section 2941.25 of the Revised
Code. A prosecution for a violation of this section does not preclude a prosecution for a violation of a
substantially equivalent municipal ordinance based on the same conduct. However, if an offender is
convicted of or pleads guilty to a violation of this section and is also convicted of or pleads guilty to
a violation of a substantially equivalent municipal ordinance based on the same conduct, the two
offenses are allied offenses of similar import under section 2941.25 of the Revised Code.
(G) As used in this section:
(1) "Electronic wireless communications device" includes any of the following:
(a) A wireless telephone;
(b) A text-messaging device;
(c) A personal digital assistant;
(d) A computer, including a laptop computer and a computer tablet;
(e) Any other substantially similar wireless device that is designed or used to communicate
text.
(2) "Voice-operated or hands-free device" means a device that allows the user to vocally
compose or send, or to listen to a text-based communication without the use of either hand except to
activate or deactivate a feature or function.
(3) "Write, send, or read a text-based communication" means to manually write or send, or
read a text-based communication using an electronic wireless communications device, including
manually writing or sending, or reading communications referred to as text messages, instant
messages, or electronic mail.
Sec. 4511.205. (A) No holder of a temporary instruction permit who has not attained the age
of eighteen years and no holder of a probationary driver's license shall drive a motor vehicle on any
street, highway, or property used by the public for purposes of vehicular traffic or parking while
using in any manner an electronic wireless communications device.
(B) Division (A) of this section does not apply to either of the following:
(1) A person using an electronic wireless communications device for emergency purposes,
including an emergency contact with a law enforcement agency, hospital or health care provider, fire
department, or other similar emergency agency or entity;
(2) A person using an electronic wireless communications device whose motor vehicle is in a
stationary position and the motor vehicle is outside a lane of travel;
(3) A person using a navigation device in a voice-operated or hands-free manner who does
not manipulate the device while driving.
(C)(1) Except as provided in division (C)(2) of this section, whoever violates division (A) of
this section shall be fined one hundred fifty dollars. In addition, the court shall impose a class seven

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suspension of the offender's driver's license or permit for a definite period of sixty days.
(2) If the person person previously has been adjudicated a delinquent child or a juvenile
traffic offender adjudicated a delinquent child or a juvenile traffic offender for a violation of this
section, whoever violates this section shall be fined three hundred dollars. In addition, the court shall
impose a class seven suspension of the person's person's driver's license or permit for a definite
period of one year.
(D) The filing of a sworn complaint against a person for a violation of this section does not
preclude the filing of a sworn complaint for a violation of a substantially equivalent municipal
ordinance for the same conduct. However, if a person is adjudicated a delinquent child or a juvenile
traffic offender for a violation of this section and is also adjudicated a delinquent child or a juvenile
traffic offender for a violation of a substantially equivalent municipal ordinance for the same
conduct, the two offenses are allied offenses of similar import under section 2941.25 of the Revised
Code. The filing of a sworn complaint against a person for a violation of this section does not
preclude the filing of a sworn complaint for a violation of a substantially equivalent municipal
ordinance for the same conduct. However, if a person is adjudicated a delinquent child or a juvenile
traffic offender for a violation of this section and is also adjudicated a delinquent child or a juvenile
traffic offender for a violation of a substantially equivalent municipal ordinance for the same
conduct, the two offenses are allied offenses of similar import under section 2941.25 of the Revised
Code.
(E) As used in this section, "electronic wireless communications device" includes any of the
following:
(1) A wireless telephone;
(2) A personal digital assistant;
(3) A computer, including a laptop computer and a computer tablet;
(4) A text-messaging device;
(5) Any other substantially similar electronic wireless device that is designed or used to
communicate via voice, image, or written word.
Sec. 4511.21. (A) No person shall operate a motor vehicle, trackless trolley, or streetcar at a
speed greater or less than is reasonable or proper, having due regard to the traffic, surface, and width
of the street or highway and any other conditions, and no person shall drive any motor vehicle,
trackless trolley, or streetcar in and upon any street or highway at a greater speed than will permit the
person to bring it to a stop within the assured clear distance ahead.
(B) It is prima-facie lawful, in the absence of a lower limit declared or established pursuant to
this section by the director of transportation or local authorities, for the operator of a motor vehicle,
trackless trolley, or streetcar to operate the same at a speed not exceeding the following:
(1)(a) Twenty miles per hour in school zones during school recess and while children are
going to or leaving school during the opening or closing hours, and when twenty miles per hour
school speed limit signs are erected; except that, on controlled-access highways and expressways, if
the right-of-way line fence has been erected without pedestrian opening, the speed shall be governed
by division (B)(4) of this section and on freeways, if the right-of-way line fence has been erected
without pedestrian opening, the speed shall be governed by divisions (B)(10) and (11) of this section.
The end of every school zone may be marked by a sign indicating the end of the zone. Nothing in this

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section or in the manual and specifications for a uniform system of traffic control devices shall be
construed to require school zones to be indicated by signs equipped with flashing or other lights, or
giving other special notice of the hours in which the school zone speed limit is in effect.
(b) As used in this section and in section 4511.212 of the Revised Code, "school" means any
school chartered under section 3301.16 of the Revised Code and any nonchartered school that during
the preceding year filed with the department of education in compliance with rule 3301-35-08 of the
Ohio Administrative Code, a copy of the school's report for the parents of the school's pupils
certifying that the school meets Ohio minimum standards for nonchartered, nontax-supported schools
and presents evidence of this filing to the jurisdiction from which it is requesting the establishment of
a school zone. "School" also includes a special elementary school that in writing requests the county
engineer of the county in which the special elementary school is located to create a school zone at the
location of that school. Upon receipt of such a written request, the county engineer shall create a
school zone at that location by erecting the appropriate signs.
(c) As used in this section, "school zone" means that portion of a street or highway passing a
school fronting upon the street or highway that is encompassed by projecting the school property
lines to the fronting street or highway, and also includes that portion of a state highway. Upon request
from local authorities for streets and highways under their jurisdiction and that portion of a state
highway under the jurisdiction of the director of transportation or a request from a county engineer in
the case of a school zone for a special elementary school, the director may extend the traditional
school zone boundaries. The distances in divisions (B)(1)(c)(i), (ii), and (iii) of this section shall not
exceed three hundred feet per approach per direction and are bounded by whichever of the following
distances or combinations thereof the director approves as most appropriate:
(i) The distance encompassed by projecting the school building lines normal to the fronting
highway and extending a distance of three hundred feet on each approach direction;
(ii) The distance encompassed by projecting the school property lines intersecting the
fronting highway and extending a distance of three hundred feet on each approach direction;
(iii) The distance encompassed by the special marking of the pavement for a principal school
pupil crosswalk plus a distance of three hundred feet on each approach direction of the highway.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to invalidate the director's initial action on August
9, 1976, establishing all school zones at the traditional school zone boundaries defined by projecting
school property lines, except when those boundaries are extended as provided in divisions (B)(1)(a)
and (c) of this section.
(d) As used in this division, "crosswalk" has the meaning given that term in division (LL)(2)
of section 4511.01 of the Revised Code.
The director may, upon request by resolution of the legislative authority of a municipal
corporation, the board of trustees of a township, or a county board of developmental disabilities
created pursuant to Chapter 5126. of the Revised Code, and upon submission by the municipal
corporation, township, or county board of such engineering, traffic, and other information as the
director considers necessary, designate a school zone on any portion of a state route lying within the
municipal corporation, lying within the unincorporated territory of the township, or lying adjacent to
the property of a school that is operated by such county board, that includes a crosswalk customarily
used by children going to or leaving a school during recess and opening and closing hours, whenever

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the distance, as measured in a straight line, from the school property line nearest the crosswalk to the
nearest point of the crosswalk is no more than one thousand three hundred twenty feet. Such a school
zone shall include the distance encompassed by the crosswalk and extending three hundred feet on
each approach direction of the state route.
(e) As used in this section, "special elementary school" means a school that meets all of the
following criteria:
(i) It is not chartered and does not receive tax revenue from any source.
(ii) It does not educate children beyond the eighth grade.
(iii) It is located outside the limits of a municipal corporation.
(iv) A majority of the total number of students enrolled at the school are not related by blood.
(v) The principal or other person in charge of the special elementary school annually sends a
report to the superintendent of the school district in which the special elementary school is located
indicating the total number of students enrolled at the school, but otherwise the principal or other
person in charge does not report any other information or data to the superintendent.
(2) Twenty-five miles per hour in all other portions of a municipal corporation, except on
state routes outside business districts, through highways outside business districts, and alleys;
(3) Thirty-five miles per hour on all state routes or through highways within municipal
corporations outside business districts, except as provided in divisions (B)(4) and (6) of this section;
(4) Fifty miles per hour on controlled-access highways and expressways within municipal
corporations;
(5) Fifty-five miles per hour on highways outside municipal corporations, other than
highways within island jurisdictions as provided in division (B)(8) of this section, highways as
provided in divisions (B)(9) and (10) of this section, and highways, expressways, and freeways as
provided in divisions (B)(13), (14), (15), and (17) of this section;
(6) Fifty miles per hour on state routes within municipal corporations outside urban districts
unless a lower prima-facie speed is established as further provided in this section;
(7) Fifteen miles per hour on all alleys within the municipal corporation;
(8) Thirty-five miles per hour on highways outside municipal corporations that are within an
island jurisdiction;
(9) Thirty-five miles per hour on through highways, except state routes, that are outside
municipal corporations and that are within a national park with boundaries extending through two or
more counties;
(10) Sixty miles per hour on two-lane state routes outside municipal corporations as
established by the director under division (H)(2) of this section;
(11) Fifty-five miles per hour at all times on freeways with paved shoulders inside municipal
corporations, other than freeways as provided in divisions (B)(15) and (17) of this section;
(12) Fifty-five miles per hour at all times on freeways outside municipal corporations, other
than freeways as provided in divisions (B)(15) and (17) of this section;
(13) Sixty miles per hour for operators of any motor vehicle at all times on all portions of
rural divided highways;
(14) Sixty-five miles per hour for operators of any motor vehicle at all times on all rural
expressways without traffic control signals;

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(15) Seventy miles per hour for operators of any motor vehicle at all times on all rural
freeways;
(16) Fifty-five miles per hour for operators of any motor vehicle at all times on all portions of
freeways in congested areas as determined by the director and that are part of the interstate system
and are located within a municipal corporation or within an interstate freeway outerbelt;
(17) Sixty-five miles per hour for operators of any motor vehicle at all times on all portions
of freeways in urban areas as determined by the director and that are part of the interstate system and
are part of an interstate freeway outerbelt.
(C) It is prima-facie unlawful for any person to exceed any of the speed limitations in
divisions (B)(1)(a), (2), (3), (4), (6), (7), (8), and (9) of this section, or any declared or established
pursuant to this section by the director or local authorities and it is unlawful for any person to exceed
any of the speed limitations in division (D) of this section. No person shall be convicted of more than
one violation of this section for the same conduct, although violations of more than one provision of
this section may be charged in the alternative in a single affidavit.
(D) No person shall operate a motor vehicle, trackless trolley, or streetcar upon a street or
highway as follows:
(1) At a speed exceeding fifty-five miles per hour, except upon a two-lane state route as
provided in division (B)(10) of this section and upon a highway, expressway, or freeway as provided
in divisions (B)(13), (14), (15), and (17) of this section;
(2) At a speed exceeding sixty miles per hour upon a two-lane state route as provided in
division (B)(10) of this section and upon a highway as provided in division (B)(13) of this section;
(3) At a speed exceeding sixty-five miles per hour upon an expressway as provided in
division (B)(14) or upon a freeway as provided in division (B)(17) of this section, except upon a
freeway as provided in division (B)(15) of this section;
(4) At a speed exceeding seventy miles per hour upon a freeway as provided in division (B)
(15) of this section;
(5) At a speed exceeding the posted speed limit upon a highway, expressway, or freeway for
which the director has determined and declared a speed limit pursuant to division (I)(2) or (L)(2) of
this section.
(E) In every charge of violation of this section the affidavit and warrant shall specify the
time, place, and speed at which the defendant is alleged to have driven, and in charges made in
reliance upon division (C) of this section also the speed which division (B)(1)(a), (2), (3), (4), (6),
(7), (8), or (9) of, or a limit declared or established pursuant to, this section declares is prima-facie
lawful at the time and place of such alleged violation, except that in affidavits where a person is
alleged to have driven at a greater speed than will permit the person to bring the vehicle to a stop
within the assured clear distance ahead the affidavit and warrant need not specify the speed at which
the defendant is alleged to have driven.
(F) When a speed in excess of both a prima-facie limitation and a limitation in division (D) of
this section is alleged, the defendant shall be charged in a single affidavit, alleging a single act, with a
violation indicated of both division (B)(1)(a), (2), (3), (4), (6), (7), (8), or (9) of this section, or of a
limit declared or established pursuant to this section by the director or local authorities, and of the
limitation in division (D) of this section. If the court finds a violation of division (B)(1)(a), (2), (3),

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(4), (6), (7), (8), or (9) of, or a limit declared or established pursuant to, this section has occurred, it
shall enter a judgment of conviction under such division and dismiss the charge under division (D) of
this section. If it finds no violation of division (B)(1)(a), (2), (3), (4), (6), (7), (8), or (9) of, or a limit
declared or established pursuant to, this section, it shall then consider whether the evidence supports
a conviction under division (D) of this section.
(G) Points shall be assessed for violation of a limitation under division (D) of this section in
accordance with section 4510.036 of the Revised Code.
(H)(1) Whenever the director determines upon the basis of a geometric and traffic
characteristic study that any speed limit set forth in divisions (B)(1)(a) to (D) of this section is greater
or less than is reasonable or safe under the conditions found to exist at any portion of a street or
highway under the jurisdiction of the director, the director shall determine and declare a reasonable
and safe prima-facie speed limit, which shall be effective when appropriate signs giving notice of it
are erected at the location.
(2) Whenever the director determines upon the basis of a geometric and traffic characteristic
study that the speed limit of fifty-five miles per hour on a two-lane state route outside a municipal
corporation is less than is reasonable or safe under the conditions found to exist at that portion of the
state route, the director may determine and declare a speed limit of sixty miles per hour for that
portion of the state route, which shall be effective when appropriate signs giving notice of it are
erected at the location.
(I)(1) Except as provided in divisions (I)(2) and (K) of this section, whenever local
authorities determine upon the basis of an engineering and traffic investigation that the speed
permitted by divisions (B)(1)(a) to (D) of this section, on any part of a highway under their
jurisdiction, is greater than is reasonable and safe under the conditions found to exist at such location,
the local authorities may by resolution request the director to determine and declare a reasonable and
safe prima-facie speed limit. Upon receipt of such request the director may determine and declare a
reasonable and safe prima-facie speed limit at such location, and if the director does so, then such
declared speed limit shall become effective only when appropriate signs giving notice thereof are
erected at such location by the local authorities. The director may withdraw the declaration of a
prima-facie speed limit whenever in the director's opinion the altered prima-facie speed becomes
unreasonable. Upon such withdrawal, the declared prima-facie speed shall become ineffective and
the signs relating thereto shall be immediately removed by the local authorities.
(2) A local authority may determine on the basis of a geometric and traffic characteristic
study that the speed limit of sixty-five miles per hour on a portion of a freeway under its jurisdiction
that was established through the operation of division (L)(3) of this section is greater than is
reasonable or safe under the conditions found to exist at that portion of the freeway. If the local
authority makes such a determination, the local authority by resolution may request the director to
determine and declare a reasonable and safe speed limit of not less than fifty-five miles per hour for
that portion of the freeway. If the director takes such action, the declared speed limit becomes
effective only when appropriate signs giving notice of it are erected at such location by the local
authority.
(J) Local authorities in their respective jurisdictions may authorize by ordinance higher
prima-facie speeds than those stated in this section upon through highways, or upon highways or

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portions thereof where there are no intersections, or between widely spaced intersections, provided
signs are erected giving notice of the authorized speed, but local authorities shall not modify or alter
the basic rule set forth in division (A) of this section or in any event authorize by ordinance a speed
in excess of fifty miles per hour.
Alteration of prima-facie limits on state routes by local authorities shall not be effective until
the alteration has been approved by the director. The director may withdraw approval of any altered
prima-facie speed limits whenever in the director's opinion any altered prima-facie speed becomes
unreasonable, and upon such withdrawal, the altered prima-facie speed shall become ineffective and
the signs relating thereto shall be immediately removed by the local authorities.
(K)(1) As used in divisions (K)(1), (2), (3), and (4) of this section, "unimproved highway"
means a highway consisting of any of the following:
(a) Unimproved earth;
(b) Unimproved graded and drained earth;
(c) Gravel.
(2) Except as otherwise provided in divisions (K)(4) and (5) of this section, whenever a board
of township trustees determines upon the basis of an engineering and traffic investigation that the
speed permitted by division (B)(5) of this section on any part of an unimproved highway under its
jurisdiction and in the unincorporated territory of the township is greater than is reasonable or safe
under the conditions found to exist at the location, the board may by resolution declare a reasonable
and safe prima-facie speed limit of fifty-five but not less than twenty-five miles per hour. An altered
speed limit adopted by a board of township trustees under this division becomes effective when
appropriate traffic control devices, as prescribed in section 4511.11 of the Revised Code, giving
notice thereof are erected at the location, which shall be no sooner than sixty days after adoption of
the resolution.
(3)(a) Whenever, in the opinion of a board of township trustees, any altered prima-facie speed
limit established by the board under this division becomes unreasonable, the board may adopt a
resolution withdrawing the altered prima-facie speed limit. Upon the adoption of such a resolution,
the altered prima-facie speed limit becomes ineffective and the traffic control devices relating thereto
shall be immediately removed.
(b) Whenever a highway ceases to be an unimproved highway and the board has adopted an
altered prima-facie speed limit pursuant to division (K)(2) of this section, the board shall, by
resolution, withdraw the altered prima-facie speed limit as soon as the highway ceases to be
unimproved. Upon the adoption of such a resolution, the altered prima-facie speed limit becomes
ineffective and the traffic control devices relating thereto shall be immediately removed.
(4)(a) If the boundary of two townships rests on the centerline of an unimproved highway in
unincorporated territory and both townships have jurisdiction over the highway, neither of the boards
of township trustees of such townships may declare an altered prima-facie speed limit pursuant to
division (K)(2) of this section on the part of the highway under their joint jurisdiction unless the
boards of township trustees of both of the townships determine, upon the basis of an engineering and
traffic investigation, that the speed permitted by division (B)(5) of this section is greater than is
reasonable or safe under the conditions found to exist at the location and both boards agree upon a
reasonable and safe prima-facie speed limit of less than fifty-five but not less than twenty-five miles

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per hour for that location. If both boards so agree, each shall follow the procedure specified in
division (K)(2) of this section for altering the prima-facie speed limit on the highway. Except as
otherwise provided in division (K)(4)(b) of this section, no speed limit altered pursuant to division
(K)(4)(a) of this section may be withdrawn unless the boards of township trustees of both townships
determine that the altered prima-facie speed limit previously adopted becomes unreasonable and each
board adopts a resolution withdrawing the altered prima-facie speed limit pursuant to the procedure
specified in division (K)(3)(a) of this section.
(b) Whenever a highway described in division (K)(4)(a) of this section ceases to be an
unimproved highway and two boards of township trustees have adopted an altered prima-facie speed
limit pursuant to division (K)(4)(a) of this section, both boards shall, by resolution, withdraw the
altered prima-facie speed limit as soon as the highway ceases to be unimproved. Upon the adoption
of the resolution, the altered prima-facie speed limit becomes ineffective and the traffic control
devices relating thereto shall be immediately removed.
(5) As used in division (K)(5) of this section:
(a) "Commercial subdivision" means any platted territory outside the limits of a municipal
corporation and fronting a highway where, for a distance of three hundred feet or more, the frontage
is improved with buildings in use for commercial purposes, or where the entire length of the highway
is less than three hundred feet long and the frontage is improved with buildings in use for commercial
purposes.
(b) "Residential subdivision" means any platted territory outside the limits of a municipal
corporation and fronting a highway, where, for a distance of three hundred feet or more, the frontage
is improved with residences or residences and buildings in use for business, or where the entire
length of the highway is less than three hundred feet long and the frontage is improved with
residences or residences and buildings in use for business.
Whenever a board of township trustees finds upon the basis of an engineering and traffic
investigation that the prima-facie speed permitted by division (B)(5) of this section on any part of a
highway under its jurisdiction that is located in a commercial or residential subdivision, except on
highways or portions thereof at the entrances to which vehicular traffic from the majority of
intersecting highways is required to yield the right-of-way to vehicles on such highways in obedience
to stop or yield signs or traffic control signals, is greater than is reasonable and safe under the
conditions found to exist at the location, the board may by resolution declare a reasonable and safe
prima-facie speed limit of less than fifty-five but not less than twenty-five miles per hour at the
location. An altered speed limit adopted by a board of township trustees under this division shall
become effective when appropriate signs giving notice thereof are erected at the location by the
township. Whenever, in the opinion of a board of township trustees, any altered prima-facie speed
limit established by it under this division becomes unreasonable, it may adopt a resolution
withdrawing the altered prima-facie speed, and upon such withdrawal, the altered prima-facie speed
shall become ineffective, and the signs relating thereto shall be immediately removed by the
township.
(L)(1) On September 29, 2013, the director of transportation, based upon an engineering
study of a highway, expressway, or freeway described in division (B)(13), (14), (15), (16), or (17) of
this section, in consultation with the director of public safety and, if applicable, the local authority

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having jurisdiction over the studied highway, expressway, or freeway, may determine and declare that
the speed limit established on such highway, expressway, or freeway under division (B)(13), (14),
(15), (16), or (17) of this section either is reasonable and safe or is more or less than that which is
reasonable and safe.
(2) If the established speed limit for a highway, expressway, or freeway studied pursuant to
division (L)(1) of this section is determined to be more or less than that which is reasonable and safe,
the director of transportation, in consultation with the director of public safety and, if applicable, the
local authority having jurisdiction over the studied highway, expressway, or freeway, shall determine
and declare a reasonable and safe speed limit for that highway, expressway, or freeway.
(M)(1)(a) If the boundary of two local authorities rests on the centerline of a highway and
both authorities have jurisdiction over the highway, the speed limit for the part of the highway within
their joint jurisdiction shall be either one of the following as agreed to by both authorities:
(i) Either prima-facie speed limit permitted by division (B) of this section;
(ii) An altered speed limit determined and posted in accordance with this section.
(b) If the local authorities are unable to reach an agreement, the speed limit shall remain as
established and posted under this section.
(2) Neither local authority may declare an altered prima-facie speed limit pursuant to this
section on the part of the highway under their joint jurisdiction unless both of the local authorities
determine, upon the basis of an engineering and traffic investigation, that the speed permitted by this
section is greater than is reasonable or safe under the conditions found to exist at the location and
both authorities agree upon a uniform reasonable and safe prima-facie speed limit of less than fiftyfive but not less than twenty-five miles per hour for that location. If both authorities so agree, each
shall follow the procedure specified in this section for altering the prima-facie speed limit on the
highway, and the speed limit for the part of the highway within their joint jurisdiction shall be
uniformly altered. No altered speed limit may be withdrawn unless both local authorities determine
that the altered prima-facie speed limit previously adopted becomes unreasonable and each adopts a
resolution withdrawing the altered prima-facie speed limit pursuant to the procedure specified in this
section.
(N) The legislative authority of a municipal corporation or township in which a boarding
school is located, by resolution or ordinance, may establish a boarding school zone. The legislative
authority may alter the speed limit on any street or highway within the boarding school zone and
shall specify the hours during which the altered speed limit is in effect. For purposes of determining
the boundaries of the boarding school zone, the altered speed limit within the boarding school zone,
and the hours the altered speed limit is in effect, the legislative authority shall consult with the
administration of the boarding school and with the county engineer or other appropriate engineer, as
applicable. A boarding school zone speed limit becomes effective only when appropriate signs giving
notice thereof are erected at the appropriate locations.
(O) As used in this section:
(1) "Interstate system" has the same meaning as in 23 U.S.C.A. 101.
(2) "Commercial bus" means a motor vehicle designed for carrying more than nine
passengers and used for the transportation of persons for compensation.
(3) "Noncommercial bus" includes but is not limited to a school bus or a motor vehicle

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operated solely for the transportation of persons associated with a charitable or nonprofit
organization.
(4) "Outerbelt" means a portion of a freeway that is part of the interstate system and is
located in the outer vicinity of a major municipal corporation or group of municipal corporations, as
designated by the director.
(5) "Rural" means outside urbanized areas, as designated in accordance with 23 U.S.C. 101,
and outside of a business or urban district.
(P)(1) A violation of any provision of this section is one of the following:
(a) Except as otherwise provided in divisions (P)(1)(b), (1)(c), (2), and (3) of this section, a
minor misdemeanor;
(b) If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or
pleaded guilty to two violations of any provision of this section or of any provision of a municipal
ordinance that is substantially similar to any provision of this section, a misdemeanor of the fourth
degree;
(c) If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or
pleaded guilty to three or more violations of any provision of this section or of any provision of a
municipal ordinance that is substantially similar to any provision of this section, a misdemeanor of
the third degree.
(2) If the offender has not previously been convicted of or pleaded guilty to a violation of any
provision of this section or of any provision of a municipal ordinance that is substantially similar to
this section and operated a motor vehicle faster than thirty-five miles an hour in a business district of
a municipal corporation, faster than fifty miles an hour in other portions of a municipal corporation,
or faster than thirty-five miles an hour in a school zone during recess or while children are going to
or leaving school during the school's opening or closing hours, a misdemeanor of the fourth degree.
(3) Notwithstanding division (P)(1) of this section, if the offender operated a motor vehicle in
a construction zone where a sign was then posted in accordance with section 4511.98 of the Revised
Code, the court, in addition to all other penalties provided by law, shall impose upon the offender a
fine of two times the usual amount imposed for the violation. No court shall impose a fine of two
times the usual amount imposed for the violation upon an offender if the offender alleges, in an
affidavit filed with the court prior to the offender's sentencing, that the offender is indigent and is
unable to pay the fine imposed pursuant to this division and if the court determines that the offender
is an indigent person and unable to pay the fine.
(4) If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.211. (A) The owner of a private road or driveway located in a private residential
area containing twenty or more dwelling units may establish a speed limit on the road or driveway by
complying with all of the following requirements:
(1) The speed limit is not less than twenty-five miles per hour and is indicated by a sign that
is in a proper position, is sufficiently legible to be seen by an ordinarily observant person, and meets
the specifications for the basic speed limit sign included in the manual adopted by the department of
transportation pursuant to section 4511.09 of the Revised Code;

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(2) The owner has posted a sign at the entrance of the private road or driveway that is in plain
view and clearly informs persons entering the road or driveway that they are entering private
property, a speed limit has been established for the road or driveway, and the speed limit is
enforceable by law enforcement officers under state law.
(B) No person shall operate a vehicle upon a private road or driveway as provided in division
(A) of this section at a speed exceeding any speed limit established and posted pursuant to that
division.
(C) When a speed limit is established and posted in accordance with division (A) of this
section, any law enforcement officer may apprehend a person violating the speed limit of the
residential area by utilizing any of the means described in section 4511.091 of the Revised Code or
by any other accepted method of determining the speed of a motor vehicle and may stop and charge
the person with exceeding the speed limit.
(D) Points shall be assessed for violation of a speed limit established and posted in
accordance with division (A) of this section in accordance with section 4510.036 of the Revised
Code.
(E) As used in this section:
(1) "Owner" includes but is not limited to a person who holds title to the real property in fee
simple, a condominium owners' association, a property owner's association, the board of directors or
trustees of a private community, and a nonprofit corporation governing a private community.
(2) "Private residential area containing twenty or more dwelling units" does not include a
Chautauqua assembly as defined in section 4511.90 of the Revised Code.
(F)(1) A violation of division (B) of this section is one of the following:
(1) (a) Except as otherwise provided in divisions (F)(2) (1)(b) and (3) (c) of this section, a
minor misdemeanor;
(2) (b) If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or
pleaded guilty to two violations of division (B) of this section or of any municipal ordinance that is
substantially similar to division (B) of this section, a misdemeanor of the fourth degree;
(3) (c) If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or
pleaded guilty to three or more violations of division (B) of this section or of any municipal
ordinance that is substantially similar to division (B) of this section, a misdemeanor of the third
degree.
(2) If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.213. (A) The driver of a motor vehicle, upon approaching a stationary public safety
vehicle, emergency vehicle, road service vehicle, vehicle used by the public utilities commission to
conduct motor vehicle inspections in accordance with sections 4923.04 and 4923.06 of the Revised
Code, or a highway maintenance vehicle that is displaying the appropriate visual signals by means of
flashing, oscillating, or rotating lights, as prescribed in section 4513.17 of the Revised Code, shall do
either of the following:
(1) If the driver of the motor vehicle is traveling on a highway that consists of at least two
lanes that carry traffic in the same direction of travel as that of the driver's motor vehicle, the driver

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shall proceed with due caution and, if possible and with due regard to the road, weather, and traffic
conditions, shall change lanes into a lane that is not adjacent to that of the stationary public safety
vehicle, emergency vehicle, road service vehicle, vehicle used by the public utilities commission to
conduct motor vehicle inspections in accordance with sections 4923.04 and 4923.06 of the Revised
Code, or a highway maintenance vehicle.
(2) If the driver is not traveling on a highway of a type described in division (A)(1) of this
section, or if the driver is traveling on a highway of that type but it is not possible to change lanes or
if to do so would be unsafe, the driver shall proceed with due caution, reduce the speed of the motor
vehicle, and maintain a safe speed for the road, weather, and traffic conditions.
(B) This section does not relieve the driver of a public safety vehicle, emergency vehicle,
road service vehicle, vehicle used by the public utilities commission to conduct motor vehicle
inspections in accordance with sections 4923.04 and 4923.06 of the Revised Code, or a highway
maintenance vehicle from the duty to drive with due regard for the safety of all persons and property
upon the highway.
(C) No person shall fail to drive a motor vehicle in compliance with division (A)(1) or (2) of
this section when so required by division (A) of this section.
(D)(1) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of
a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted
of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
(2) Notwithstanding section 2929.28 of the Revised Code, upon a finding that a person
operated a motor vehicle in violation of division (C) of this section, the court, in addition to all other
penalties provided by law, shall impose a fine of two times the usual amount imposed for the
violation.
(3) If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.22. (A) No person shall stop or operate a vehicle, trackless trolley, or street car at
such an unreasonably slow speed as to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of
traffic, except when stopping or reduced speed is necessary for safe operation or to comply with law.
(B) Whenever the director of transportation or local authorities determine on the basis of an
engineering and traffic investigation that slow speeds on any part of a controlled-access highway,
expressway, or freeway consistently impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic, the
director or such local authority may declare a minimum speed limit below which no person shall
operate a motor vehicle, trackless trolley, or street car except when necessary for safe operation or in
compliance with law. No minimum speed limit established hereunder shall be less than thirty miles
per hour, greater than fifty miles per hour, nor effective until the provisions of section 4511.21 of the
Revised Code, relating to appropriate signs, have been fulfilled and local authorities have obtained
the approval of the director.
(C) In a case involving a violation of this section, the trier of fact, in determining whether the

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vehicle was being operated at an unreasonably slow speed, shall consider the capabilities of the
vehicle and its operator.
(D) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.23. (A) No person shall operate a vehicle, trackless trolley, or streetcar over any
bridge or other elevated structure constituting a part of a highway at a speed which is greater than the
maximum speed that can be maintained with safety to such bridge or structure, when such structure is
posted with signs as provided in this section.
The department of transportation upon request from any local authority shall, or upon its own
initiative may, conduct an investigation of any bridge or other elevated structure constituting a part of
a highway, and if it finds that such structure cannot with safety withstand traffic traveling at the speed
otherwise permissible under sections 4511.01 to 4511.85 and 4511.98 of the Revised Code, the
department shall determine and declare the maximum speed of traffic which such structure can
withstand, and shall cause or permit suitable signs stating such maximum speed to be erected and
maintained at a distance of at least one hundred feet before each end of such structure.
Upon the trial of any person charged with a violation of this section, proof of said
determination of the maximum speed by the department and the existence of said signs shall
constitute prima-facie evidence of the maximum speed which can be maintained with safety to such
bridge or structure.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.25. (A) Upon all roadways of sufficient width, a vehicle or trackless trolley shall
be driven upon the right half of the roadway, except as follows:
(1) When overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction, or when
making a left turn under the rules governing such movements;
(2) When an obstruction exists making it necessary to drive to the left of the center of the
highway; provided, any person so doing shall yield the right of way to all vehicles traveling in the
proper direction upon the unobstructed portion of the highway within such distance as to constitute

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an immediate hazard;
(3) When driving upon a roadway divided into three or more marked lanes for traffic under
the rules applicable thereon;
(4) When driving upon a roadway designated and posted with signs for one-way traffic;
(5) When otherwise directed by a police officer or traffic control device.
(B)(1) Upon all roadways any vehicle or trackless trolley proceeding at less than the
prevailing and lawful speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing
shall be driven in the right-hand lane then available for traffic, and far enough to the right to allow
passing by faster vehicles if such passing is safe and reasonable, except under any of the following
circumstances:
(a) When overtaking and passing another vehicle or trackless trolley proceeding in the same
direction;
(b) When preparing for a left turn;
(c) When the driver must necessarily drive in a lane other than the right-hand lane to continue
on the driver's intended route.
(2) Nothing in division (B)(1) of this section requires a driver of a slower vehicle to
compromise the driver's safety to allow overtaking by a faster vehicle.
(C) Upon any roadway having four or more lanes for moving traffic and providing for twoway movement of traffic, no vehicle or trackless trolley shall be driven to the left of the center line of
the roadway, except when authorized by official traffic control devices designating certain lanes to
the left of the center of the roadway for use by traffic not otherwise permitted to use the lanes, or
except as permitted under division (A)(2) of this section.
This division shall not be construed as prohibiting the crossing of the center line in making a
left turn into or from an alley, private road, or driveway.
(D) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.26. (A) Operators of vehicles and trackless trolleys proceeding in opposite
directions shall pass each other to the right, and upon roadways having width for not more than one
line of traffic in each direction, each operator shall give to the other one-half of the main traveled
portion of the roadway or as nearly one-half as is reasonable possible.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever

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violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.27. (A) The following rules govern the overtaking and passing of vehicles or
trackless trolleys proceeding in the same direction:
(1) The operator of a vehicle or trackless trolley overtaking another vehicle or trackless
trolley proceeding in the same direction shall, except as provided in division (A)(3) of this section,
signal to the vehicle or trackless trolley to be overtaken, shall pass to the left thereof at a safe
distance, and shall not again drive to the right side of the roadway until safely clear of the overtaken
vehicle or trackless trolley. When a motor vehicle or trackless trolley overtakes and passes a bicycle,
three feet or greater is considered a safe passing distance.
(2) Except when overtaking and passing on the right is permitted, the operator of an
overtaken vehicle shall give way to the right in favor of the overtaking vehicle at the latter's audible
signal, and the operator shall not increase the speed of the operator's vehicle until completely passed
by the overtaking vehicle.
(3) The operator of a vehicle or trackless trolley overtaking and passing another vehicle or
trackless trolley proceeding in the same direction on a divided highway as defined in section 4511.35
of the Revised Code, a limited access highway as defined in section 5511.02 of the Revised Code, or
a highway with four or more traffic lanes, is not required to signal audibly to the vehicle or trackless
trolley being overtaken and passed.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.28. (A) The driver of a vehicle or trackless trolley may overtake and pass upon the
right of another vehicle or trackless trolley only under the following conditions:
(1) When the vehicle or trackless trolley overtaken is making or about to make a left turn;
(2) Upon a roadway with unobstructed pavement of sufficient width for two or more lines of
vehicles moving lawfully in the direction being traveled by the overtaking vehicle.
(B) The driver of a vehicle or trackless trolley may overtake and pass another vehicle or
trackless trolley only under conditions permitting such movement in safety. The movement shall not
be made by driving off the roadway.
(C) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender

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previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.29. (A) No vehicle or trackless trolley shall be driven to the left of the center of the
roadway in overtaking and passing traffic proceeding in the same direction, unless such left side is
clearly visible and is free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance ahead to permit such
overtaking and passing to be completely made, without interfering with the safe operation of any
traffic approaching from the opposite direction or any traffic overtaken. In every event the overtaking
vehicle or trackless trolley must return to an authorized lane of travel as soon as practicable and in
the event the passing movement involves the use of a lane authorized for traffic approaching from the
opposite direction, before coming within two hundred feet of any approaching vehicle.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.30. (A) No vehicle or trackless trolley shall be driven upon the left side of the
roadway under the following conditions:
(1) When approaching the crest of a grade or upon a curve in the highway, where the
operator's view is obstructed within such a distance as to create a hazard in the event traffic might
approach from the opposite direction;
(2) When the view is obstructed upon approaching within one hundred feet of any bridge,
viaduct, or tunnel;
(3) When approaching within one hundred feet of or traversing any intersection or railroad
grade crossing.
(B) This section does not apply to vehicles or trackless trolleys upon a one-way roadway,
upon a roadway where traffic is lawfully directed to be driven to the left side, or under the conditions
described in division (A)(2) of section 4511.25 of the Revised Code.
(C) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine

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established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.31. (A) The department of transportation may determine those portions of any state
highway where overtaking and passing other traffic or driving to the left of the center or center line
of the roadway would be especially hazardous and may, by appropriate signs or markings on the
highway, indicate the beginning and end of such zones. When such signs or markings are in place
and clearly visible, every operator of a vehicle or trackless trolley shall obey the directions of the
signs or markings, notwithstanding the distances set out in section 4511.30 of the Revised Code.
(B) Division (A) of this section does not apply when all of the following apply:
(1) The slower vehicle is proceeding at less than half the speed of the speed limit applicable
to that location.
(2) The faster vehicle is capable of overtaking and passing the slower vehicle without
exceeding the speed limit.
(3) There is sufficient clear sight distance to the left of the center or center line of the
roadway to meet the overtaking and passing provisions of section 4511.29 of the Revised Code,
considering the speed of the slower vehicle.
(C) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.32. (A) The department of transportation may designate any highway or any
separate roadway under its jurisdiction for one-way traffic and shall erect appropriate signs giving
notice thereof.
Upon a roadway designated and posted with signs for one-way traffic a vehicle shall be
driven only in the direction designated.
A vehicle passing around a rotary traffic island shall be driven only to the right of the rotary
traffic island.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.33. (A) Whenever any roadway has been divided into two or more clearly marked
lanes for traffic, or wherever within municipal corporations traffic is lawfully moving in two or more

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substantially continuous lines in the same direction, the following rules apply:
(1) A vehicle or trackless trolley shall be driven, as nearly as is practicable, entirely within a
single lane or line of traffic and shall not be moved from such lane or line until the driver has first
ascertained that such movement can be made with safety.
(2) Upon a roadway which is divided into three lanes and provides for two-way movement of
traffic, a vehicle or trackless trolley shall not be driven in the center lane except when overtaking and
passing another vehicle or trackless trolley where the roadway is clearly visible and such center lane
is clear of traffic within a safe distance, or when preparing for a left turn, or where such center lane is
at the time allocated exclusively to traffic moving in the direction the vehicle or trackless trolley is
proceeding and is posted with signs to give notice of such allocation.
(3) Official signs may be erected directing specified traffic to use a designated lane or
designating those lanes to be used by traffic moving in a particular direction regardless of the center
of the roadway, or restricting the use of a particular lane to only buses during certain hours or during
all hours, and drivers of vehicles and trackless trolleys shall obey the directions of such signs.
(4) Official traffic control devices may be installed prohibiting the changing of lanes on
sections of roadway and drivers of vehicles shall obey the directions of every such device.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.34. (A) The operator of a motor vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley shall not
follow another vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley more closely than is reasonable and prudent,
having due regard for the speed of such vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley, and the traffic upon and
the condition of the highway.
The driver of any truck, or motor vehicle drawing another vehicle, when traveling upon a
roadway outside a business or residence district shall maintain a sufficient space, whenever
conditions permit, between such vehicle and another vehicle ahead so an overtaking motor vehicle
may enter and occupy such space without danger. This paragraph does not prevent overtaking and
passing nor does it apply to any lane specially designated for use by trucks.
Outside a municipal corporation, the driver of any truck, or motor vehicle when drawing
another vehicle, while ascending to the crest of a grade beyond which the driver's view of a roadway
is obstructed, shall not follow within three hundred feet of another truck, or motor vehicle drawing
another vehicle. This paragraph shall not apply to any lane specially designated for use by trucks.
Motor vehicles being driven upon any roadway outside of a business or residence district in a
caravan or motorcade, shall maintain a sufficient space between such vehicles so an overtaking
vehicle may enter and occupy such space without danger. This paragraph shall not apply to funeral
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(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.35. (A) Whenever any highway has been divided into two roadways by an
intervening space, or by a physical barrier, or clearly indicated dividing section so constructed as to
impede vehicular traffic, every vehicle shall be driven only upon the right-hand roadway, and no
vehicle shall be driven over, across, or within any such dividing space, barrier, or section, except
through an opening, crossover, or intersection established by public authority. This section does not
prohibit the occupancy of such dividing space, barrier, or section for the purpose of an emergency
stop or in compliance with an order of a police officer.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.36. (A) The driver of a vehicle intending to turn at an intersection shall be
governed by the following rules:
(1) Approach for a right turn and a right turn shall be made as close as practicable to the
right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.
(2) At any intersection where traffic is permitted to move in both directions on each roadway
entering the intersection, an approach for a left turn shall be made in that portion of the right half of
the roadway nearest the center line thereof and by passing to the right of such center line where it
enters the intersection and after entering the intersection the left turn shall be made so as to leave the
intersection to the right of the center line of the roadway being entered. Whenever practicable the left
turn shall be made in that portion of the intersection to the left of the center of the intersection.
(3) At any intersection where traffic is restricted to one direction on one or more of the
roadways, the driver of a vehicle intending to turn left at any such intersection shall approach the
intersection in the extreme left-hand lane lawfully available to traffic moving in the direction of
travel of such vehicle, and after entering the intersection the left turn shall be made so as to leave the
intersection, as nearly as practicable, in the left-hand lane of the roadway being entered lawfully
available to traffic moving in that lane.
(B) The operator of a trackless trolley shall comply with divisions (A)(1), (2), and (3) of this

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section wherever practicable.
(C) The department of transportation and local authorities in their respective jurisdictions
may cause markers, buttons, or signs to be placed within or adjacent to intersections and thereby
require and direct that a different course from that specified in this section be traveled by vehicles,
streetcars, or trackless trolleys, turning at an intersection, and when markers, buttons, or signs are so
placed, no operator of a vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley shall turn such vehicle, streetcar, or
trackless trolley at an intersection other than as directed and required by such markers, buttons, or
signs.
(D) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.37. (A) Except as provided in section 4511.13 of the Revised Code and division
(B) of this section, no vehicle shall be turned so as to proceed in the opposite direction upon any
curve, or upon the approach to or near the crest of a grade, if the vehicle cannot be seen within five
hundred feet by the driver of any other vehicle approaching from either direction.
(B) The driver of an emergency vehicle or public safety vehicle, when responding to an
emergency call, may turn the vehicle so as to proceed in the opposite direction. This division applies
only when the emergency vehicle or public safety vehicle is responding to an emergency call, is
equipped with and displaying at least one flashing, rotating, or oscillating light visible under normal
atmospheric conditions from a distance of five hundred feet to the front of the vehicle, and when the
driver of the vehicle is giving an audible signal by siren, exhaust whistle, or bell. This division does
not relieve the driver of an emergency vehicle or public safety vehicle from the duty to drive with
due regard for the safety of all persons and property upon the highway.
(C) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.38. (A) No person shall start a vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley which is
stopped, standing, or parked until such movement can be made with reasonable safety.
Before backing, operators of vehicle, streetcars, or trackless trolleys shall give ample
warning, and while backing they shall exercise vigilance not to injure person or property on the street

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or highway.
No person shall back a motor vehicle on a freeway, except: in a rest area; in the performance
of public works or official duties; as a result of an emergency caused by an accident or breakdown of
a motor vehicle.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.39. (A) No person shall turn a vehicle or trackless trolley or move right or left upon
a highway unless and until such person has exercised due care to ascertain that the movement can be
made with reasonable safety nor without giving an appropriate signal in the manner hereinafter
provided.
When required, a signal of intention to turn or move right or left shall be given continuously
during not less than the last one hundred feet traveled by the vehicle or trackless trolley before
turning, except that in the case of a person operating a bicycle, the signal shall be made not less than
one time but is not required to be continuous. A bicycle operator is not required to make a signal if
the bicycle is in a designated turn lane, and a signal shall not be given when the operator's hands are
needed for the safe operation of the bicycle.
No person shall stop or suddenly decrease the speed of a vehicle or trackless trolley without
first giving an appropriate signal in the manner provided herein to the driver of any vehicle or
trackless trolley immediately to the rear when there is opportunity to give a signal.
Any stop or turn signal required by this section shall be given either by means of the hand
and arm, or by signal lights that clearly indicate to both approaching and following traffic intention to
turn or move right or left, except that any motor vehicle in use on a highway shall be equipped with,
and the required signal shall be given by, signal lights when the distance from the center of the top of
the steering post to the left outside limit of the body, cab, or load of such motor vehicle exceeds
twenty-four inches, or when the distance from the center of the top of the steering post to the rear
limit of the body or load thereof exceeds fourteen feet, whether a single vehicle or a combination of
vehicles.
The signal lights required by this section shall not be flashed on one side only on a disabled
vehicle or trackless trolley, flashed as a courtesy or "do pass" signal to operators of other vehicles or
trackless trolleys approaching from the rear, nor be flashed on one side only of a parked vehicle or
trackless trolley except as may be necessary for compliance with this section.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender

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previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.40. (A) Except as provided in division (B) of this section, all signals required by
sections 4511.01 to 4511.78 of the Revised Code, when given by hand and arm, shall be given from
the left side of the vehicle in the following manner, and such signals shall indicate as follows:
(1) Left turn, hand and arm extended horizontally;
(2) Right turn, hand and arm extended upward;
(3) Stop or decrease speed, hand and arm extended downward.
(B) As an alternative to division (A)(2) of this section, a person operating a bicycle may give
a right turn signal by extending the right hand and arm horizontally and to the right side of the
bicycle.
(C) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.41. (A) When two vehicles, including any trackless trolley or streetcar, approach or
enter an intersection from different streets or highways at approximately the same time, the driver of
the vehicle on the left shall yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right.
(B) The right-of-way rule declared in division (A) of this section is modified at through
highways and otherwise as stated in Chapter 4511. of the Revised Code.
(C) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.42. (A) The operator of a vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley intending to turn to
the left within an intersection or into an alley, private road, or driveway shall yield the right of way to
any vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley approaching from the opposite direction, whenever the
approaching vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley is within the intersection or so close to the
intersection, alley, private road, or driveway as to constitute an immediate hazard.

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(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.43. (A) Except when directed to proceed by a law enforcement officer, every driver
of a vehicle or trackless trolley approaching a stop sign shall stop at a clearly marked stop line, but if
none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or, if none, then at the point
nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic on the
intersecting roadway before entering it. After having stopped, the driver shall yield the right-of-way
to any vehicle in the intersection or approaching on another roadway so closely as to constitute an
immediate hazard during the time the driver is moving across or within the intersection or junction of
roadways.
(B) The driver of a vehicle or trackless trolley approaching a yield sign shall slow down to a
speed reasonable for the existing conditions and, if required for safety to stop, shall stop at a clearly
marked stop line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or, if
none, then at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching
traffic on the intersecting roadway before entering it. After slowing or stopping, the driver shall yield
the right-of-way to any vehicle or trackless trolley in the intersection or approaching on another
roadway so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard during the time the driver is moving across
or within the intersection or junction of roadways. Whenever a driver is involved in a collision with a
vehicle or trackless trolley in the intersection or junction of roadways, after driving past a yield sign
without stopping, the collision shall be prima-facie evidence of the driver's failure to yield the rightof-way.
(C) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.431. (A) The driver of a vehicle or trackless trolley emerging from an alley,
building, private road, or driveway within a business or residence district shall stop the vehicle or
trackless trolley immediately prior to driving onto a sidewalk or onto the sidewalk area extending
across the alley, building entrance, road, or driveway, or in the event there is no sidewalk area, shall
stop at the point nearest the street to be entered where the driver has a view of approaching traffic

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thereon.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.44. (A) The operator of a vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley about to enter or
cross a highway from any place other than another roadway shall yield the right of way to all traffic
approaching on the roadway to be entered or crossed.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.441. (A) The driver of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian on a
sidewalk.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.451. (A) As used in this section, "funeral procession" means two or more vehicles
accompanying the cremated remains or the body of a deceased person in the daytime when each of
the vehicles has its headlights lighted and is displaying a purple and white or an orange and white
pennant attached to each vehicle in such a manner as to be clearly visible to traffic approaching from
any direction.
(B) Excepting public safety vehicles proceeding in accordance with section 4511.45 of the
Revised Code or when directed otherwise by a police officer, pedestrians and the operators of all
vehicles, street cars, and trackless trolleys shall yield the right of way to each vehicle that is a part of
a funeral procession. Whenever the lead vehicle in a funeral procession lawfully enters an

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intersection, the remainder of the vehicles in the procession may continue to follow the lead vehicle
through the intersection notwithstanding any traffic control devices or right of way provisions of the
Revised Code, provided that the operator of each vehicle exercises due care to avoid colliding with
any other vehicle or pedestrian.
(C) No person shall operate any vehicle as a part of a funeral procession without having the
headlights of the vehicle lighted and without displaying a purple and white or an orange and white
pennant in such a manner as to be clearly visible to traffic approaching from any direction.
(D) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.46. (A) When traffic control signals are not in place, not in operation, or are not
clearly assigning the right-of-way, the driver of a vehicle, trackless trolley, or streetcar shall yield the
right of way, slowing down or stopping if need be to so yield or if required by section 4511.132 of
the Revised Code, to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within a crosswalk when the pedestrian is
upon the half of the roadway upon which the vehicle is traveling, or when the pedestrian is
approaching so closely from the opposite half of the roadway as to be in danger.
(B) No pedestrian shall suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the
path of a vehicle, trackless trolley, or streetcar which is so close as to constitute an immediate hazard.
(C) Division (A) of this section does not apply under the conditions stated in division (B) of
section 4511.48 of the Revised Code.
(D) Whenever any vehicle, trackless trolley, or streetcar is stopped at a marked crosswalk or
at any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection to permit a pedestrian to cross the roadway, the driver
of any other vehicle, trackless trolley, or streetcar approaching from the rear shall not overtake and
pass the stopped vehicle.
(E) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.47. (A) As used in this section "blind person" or "blind pedestrian" means a person
having not more than 20/200 visual acuity in the better eye with correcting lenses or visual acuity
greater than 20/200 but with a limitation in the fields of vision such that the widest diameter of the

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visual field subtends an angle no greater than twenty degrees.
The driver of every vehicle shall yield the right of way to every blind pedestrian guided by a
guide dog, or carrying a cane which is predominantly white or metallic in color, with or without a red
tip.
(B) No person, other than a blind person, while on any public highway, street, alley, or other
public thoroughfare shall carry a white or metallic cane with or without a red tip.
(C) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.54. (A) No person riding upon any bicycle, coaster, roller skates, sled, or toy
vehicle shall attach the same or self to any streetcar, trackless trolley, or vehicle upon a roadway.
No operator shall knowingly permit any person riding upon any bicycle, coaster, roller skates,
sled, or toy vehicle to attach the same or self to any streetcar, trackless trolley, or vehicle while it is
moving upon a roadway.
This section does not apply to the towing of a disabled vehicle.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.55. (A) Every person operating a bicycle upon a roadway shall ride as near to the
right side of the roadway as practicable obeying all traffic rules applicable to vehicles and exercising
due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction.
(B) Persons riding bicycles or motorcycles upon a roadway shall ride not more than two
abreast in a single lane, except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of
bicycles or motorcycles.
(C) This section does not require a person operating a bicycle to ride at the edge of the
roadway when it is unreasonable or unsafe to do so. Conditions that may require riding away from
the edge of the roadway include when necessary to avoid fixed or moving objects, parked or moving
vehicles, surface hazards, or if it otherwise is unsafe or impracticable to do so, including if the lane is
too narrow for the bicycle and an overtaking vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.
(D) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a

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minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.57. (A) The driver of a vehicle shall not overtake and pass upon the left nor drive
upon the left side of any streetcar proceeding in the same direction, whether such streetcar is in
motion or at rest, except:
(1) When so directed by a police officer or traffic control device;
(2) When upon a one-way street;
(3) When upon a street where the tracks are so located as to prevent compliance with this
section;
(4) When authorized by local authorities.
(B) The driver of any vehicle when permitted to overtake and pass upon the left of a streetcar
which has stopped for the purpose of receiving or discharging any passenger shall accord pedestrians
the right of way.
(C) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.58. (A) The driver of a vehicle overtaking upon the right any streetcar stopped for
the purpose of receiving or discharging any passenger shall stop such vehicle at least five feet to the
rear of the nearest running board or door of such streetcar and remain standing until all passengers
have boarded such streetcar, or upon alighting therefrom have reached a place of safety, except that
where a safety zone has been established, a vehicle need not be brought to a stop before passing any
such streetcar or any trackless trolley, but may proceed past such streetcar or trackless trolley at a
speed not greater than is reasonable and proper considering the safety of pedestrians.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a

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contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.59. (A) The driver of any vehicle proceeding upon any streetcar tracks in front of a
streetcar shall remove such vehicle from the track as soon as practicable after signal from the
operator of said streetcar.
The driver of a vehicle upon overtaking and passing a streetcar shall not turn in front of such
streetcar unless such movement can be made in safety.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.60. (A) No vehicle shall at any time be driven through or within a safety zone.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.61. (A) As used in this section, "active grade crossing warning device" has the
same meaning as in section 5733.43 of the Revised Code.
(B) The department of transportation and local authorities in their respective jurisdictions,
with the approval of the department, may designate dangerous highway crossings over railroad tracks
whether on state, county, or township highways or on streets or ways within municipal corporations,
and erect stop signs thereat.
(C)(1) The department and local authorities shall erect stop signs at a railroad highway grade
crossing in either of the following circumstances:
(a) New warning devices that are not active grade crossing warning devices are being
installed at the grade crossing, and railroad crossbucks were the only warning devices at the grade
crossing prior to the installation of the new warning devices.
(b) The grade crossing is constructed after the effective date of this amendment July 1, 2013,
and only warning devices that are not active grade crossing warning devices are installed at the grade
crossing.
(2) Division (C)(1) of this section does not apply to a railroad highway grade crossing that
the director of transportation has exempted from that division because of traffic flow or other

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considerations or factors.
(D) When stop signs are erected pursuant to division (B) or (C) of this section, the operator of
any vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley shall stop within fifty, but not less than fifteen, feet from the
nearest rail of the railroad tracks and shall exercise due care before proceeding across such grade
crossing.
(E) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates division (D) of this
section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously
has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the
offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic
offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.64. (A) No person shall operate or move any crawler-type tractor, steam shovel,
derrick, roller, or any equipment or structure having a normal operating speed of six or less miles per
hour or a vertical body or load clearance of less than nine inches above the level surface of a
roadway, upon or across any tracks at a railroad grade crossing without first complying with divisions
(A)(1) and (2) of this section.
(1) Before making any such crossing, the person operating or moving any such vehicle or
equipment shall first stop the same, and while stopped the person shall listen and look in both
directions along such track for any approaching train and for signals indicating the approach of a
train, and shall proceed only upon exercising due care.
(2) No such crossing shall be made when warning is given by automatic signal or crossing
gates or a flagperson or otherwise of the immediate approach of a railroad train or car.
(B) If the normal sustained speed of such vehicle, equipment, or structure is not more than
three miles per hour, the person owning, operating, or moving the same shall also give notice of such
intended crossing to a station agent or superintendent of the railroad, and a reasonable time shall be
given to such railroad to provide proper protection for such crossing. Where such vehicles or
equipment are being used in constructing or repairing a section of highway lying on both sides of a
railroad grade crossing, and in such construction or repair it is necessary to repeatedly move such
vehicles or equipment over such crossing, one daily notice specifying when such work will start and
stating the hours during which it will be prosecuted is sufficient.
(C) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.

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Sec. 4511.71. (A) No person shall drive upon, along, or across a street or highway, or any
part of a street or highway that has been closed in the process of its construction, reconstruction, or
repair, and posted with appropriate signs by the authority having jurisdiction to close such highway.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.711. (A) No person shall drive any vehicle, other than a bicycle, upon a sidewalk
or sidewalk area except upon a permanent or duly authorized temporary driveway.
Nothing in this section shall be construed as prohibiting local authorities from regulating the
operation of bicycles within their respective jurisdictions, except that no local authority may require
that bicycles be operated on sidewalks.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.712. (A) No driver shall enter an intersection or marked crosswalk or drive onto
any railroad grade crossing unless there is sufficient space on the other side of the intersection,
crosswalk, or grade crossing to accommodate the vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley the driver is
operating without obstructing the passage of other vehicles, streetcars, trackless trolleys, pedestrians,
or railroad trains, notwithstanding any traffic control signal indication to proceed.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.713. (A) No person shall operate a motor vehicle, snowmobile, or all-purpose
vehicle upon any path set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles, when an appropriate sign giving

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notice of such use is posted on the path.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to affect any rule of the director of natural
resources governing the operation of motor vehicles, snowmobiles, all-purpose vehicles, and bicycles
on lands under the director's jurisdiction.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.72. (A) The driver of any vehicle, other than an emergency vehicle or public safety
vehicle on official business, shall not follow any emergency vehicle or public safety vehicle traveling
in response to an alarm closer than five hundred feet, or drive into or park such vehicle within the
block where fire apparatus has stopped in answer to a fire alarm, unless directed to do so by a police
officer or a firefighter.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.73. (A) No streetcar, trackless trolley, or vehicle shall, without the consent of the
fire department official in command, be driven over any unprotected hose of a fire department that is
laid down on any street, private driveway, or streetcar track to be used at any fire or alarm of fire.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a
minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of
or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is
guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender
previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever
violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a
contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine
established under section 4511.991 of the Revised Code.
Sec. 4511.991. (A) As used in this section and each section referenced in division (B) of this
section, all of the following apply:
(1) "Distracted" means doing either of the following while operating a vehicle:

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(a) Using a handheld electronic wireless communications device, as defined in section
4511.204 of the Revised Code, except when utilizing any of the following:
(i) The device's speakerphone function;
(ii) A wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances;
(iii) A "voice-operated or hands-free" device that allows the person to use the electronic
wireless communications device without the use of either hand except to activate, deactivate, or
initiate a feature or function;
(iv) Any device that is physically or electronically integrated into the motor vehicle.
(b) Engaging in any activity that is not necessary to the operation of a vehicle and impairs, or
reasonably would be expected to impair, the ability of the operator to drive the vehicle safely.
(2) "Distracted" does not include operating a motor vehicle while wearing an earphone or
earplug over or in both ears at the same time. A person who so wears earphones or earplugs may be
charged with a violation of section 4511.84 of the Revised Code.
(3) "Distracted" does not include conducting any activity while operating a utility service
vehicle or a vehicle for or on behalf of a utility, provided that the driver of the vehicle is acting in
response to an emergency, power outage, or a circumstance affecting the health or safety of
individuals.
As used in division (A)(3) of this section:
(a) "Utility" means an entity specified in division (A), (C), (D), (E), or (G) of section 4905.03
of the Revised Code.
(b) "Utility service vehicle" means a vehicle owned or operated by a utility.
(B) If an offender violates section 4511.03, 4511.051, 4511.12, 4511.121, 4511.132, 4511.21,
4511.211, 4511.213, 4511.22, 4511.23, 4511.25, 4511.26, 4511.27, 4511.28, 4511.29, 4511.30,
4511.31, 4511.32, 4511.33, 4511.34, 4511.35, 4511.36, 4511.37, 4511.38, 4511.39, 4511.40, 4511.41,
4511.42, 4511.43, 4511.431, 4511.44, 4511.441, 4511.451, 4511.46, 4511.47, 4511.54, 4511.55,
4511.57, 4511.58, 4511.59, 4511.60, 4511.61, 4511.64, 4511.71, 4511.711, 4511.712, 4511.713,
4511.72, or 4511.73 of the Revised Code while distracted and the distracting activity is a contributing
factor to the commission of the violation, the offender is subject to the applicable penalty for the
violation and, notwithstanding section 2929.28 of the Revised Code, is subject to an additional fine
of not more than one hundred dollars as follows:
(1) Subject to Traffic Rule 13, if a law enforcement officer issues an offender a ticket,
citation, or summons for a violation of any of the aforementioned sections of the Revised Code that
indicates that the offender was distracted while committing the violation and that the distracting
activity was a contributing factor to the commission of the violation, the offender may enter a written
plea of guilty and waive the offender's right to contest the ticket, citation, or summons in a trial
provided that the offender pays the total amount of the fine established for the violation and pays the
additional fine of one hundred dollars.
In lieu of payment of the additional fine of one hundred dollars, the offender instead may
elect to attend a distracted driving safety course, the duration and contents of which shall be
established by the director of public safety. If the offender attends and successfully completes the
course, the offender shall be issued written evidence that the offender successfully completed the
course. The offender shall be required to pay the total amount of the fine established for the violation,

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but shall not be required to pay the additional fine of one hundred dollars, so long as the offender
submits to the court both the offender's payment in full and such written evidence.
(2) If the offender appears in person to contest the ticket, citation, or summons in a trial and
the offender pleads guilty to or is convicted of the violation, the court, in addition to all other
penalties provided by law, may impose the applicable penalty for the violation and may impose the
additional fine of not more than one hundred dollars.
If the court imposes upon the offender the applicable penalty for the violation and an
additional fine of not more than one hundred dollars, the court shall inform the offender that, in lieu
of payment of the additional fine of not more than one hundred dollars, the offender instead may
elect to attend the distracted driving safety course described in division (B)(1) of this section. If the
offender elects the course option and attends and successfully completes the course, the offender
shall be issued written evidence that the offender successfully completed the course. The offender
shall be required to pay the total amount of the fine established for the violation, but shall not be
required to pay the additional fine of not more than one hundred dollars, so long as the offender
submits to the court the offender's payment and such written evidence.
SECTION 2. That existing sections 4511.03, 4511.051, 4511.12, 4511.121, 4511.132, 4511.204,
4511.205, 4511.21, 4511.211, 4511.213, 4511.22, 4511.23, 4511.25, 4511.26, 4511.27, 4511.28,
4511.29, 4511.30, 4511.31, 4511.32, 4511.33, 4511.34, 4511.35, 4511.36, 4511.37, 4511.38, 4511.39,
4511.40, 4511.41, 4511.42, 4511.43, 4511.431, 4511.44, 4511.441, 4511.451, 4511.46, 4511.47,
4511.54, 4511.55, 4511.57, 4511.58, 4511.59, 4511.60, 4511.61, 4511.64, 4511.71, 4511.711,
4511.712, 4511.713, 4511.72, and 4511.73 of the Revised Code are hereby repealed.
SECTION 3. The amendments to sections 4511.204 and 4511.205 of the Revised Code by this
act are intended to reenact the amendments to those sections made by Sub. H.B. 606 of the 129th
General Assembly that were severed by the Tenth District Court of Appeals of Ohio in Linndale v.
Ohio, 2014-Ohio-4024; 19 N.E.3d 935 (10th Dist.) due to the determination that those provisions
violated the one subject rule established under Article II, Section 15(D) of the Ohio Constitution.

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Speaker ___________________ of the House of Representatives.

President ___________________ of the Senate.

Passed ________________________, 20____

Approved ________________________, 20____

Governor.

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The section numbering of law of a general and permanent nature is
complete and in conformity with the Revised Code.

Director, Legislative Service Commission.

Filed in the office of the Secretary of State at Columbus, Ohio, on the ____
day of ___________, A. D. 20____.

Secretary of State.

File No. _________

Effective Date ___________________