Kent Police Department struggles to cite distracted drivers

INTRO: Governor Kasich designated the month of September as ‘Safe Driving Awareness Month.’ Despite the increase in awareness, the Kent Police Department says it’s challenging to pull over drivers for not paying attention while driving. TV2’s Vivian Feke has the story.

TAG: According to Ohio Revised Code there are several things the texting and driving ban does not apply to, including using a device for emergency purposes,  receiving text messages, and using a hand-held device.

Governor Kasich designated September as ‘Safe Driving Awareness Month’ in the state of Ohio. Governor Kasich and Lieutenant Governor Mary Taylor hope the resolution will encourage drivers to be aware of the consequences to distracted driving.

Although the resolution does not change the law, Lieutenant Jim Prusha of the Kent Police Department says it can be difficult to actually pull over and ticket drivers who are not paying attention to the road.

“To say that they [drivers] are actually sending a text message is nearly impossible,” said Prusha.

According to Ohio Revised Code, texting and driving is a secondary offense for adults, but a primary offense for minors. Despite the law, there are some actions that drivers can still do on their phones while driving, including using a GPS or making a call for an emergency.

Prusha thinks the resolution will increase awareness in Ohio, but also advises people who struggle with texting and driving to take some time to think about the consequences, or watch informational videos.