Texting tickets start Friday

DAYTON (WDTN) - For billboard installer, Owen Williamson, safety is always part of the job.

However on Tuesday, the steps weren't just to protect himself but also the community
    
Williamson installed AAA's new "Don't Text and Drive Billboard" at the intersection of Leo and Keowee.

"People do need to at least keep their eyes out for stuff like this, rather than on their phones.”

The sign is already getting attention.
    
Keith Daniels works across the street at Agnes' All Natural Grill and watched as the billboard was put up. He said the message has him thinking. "I've been guilty of texting and driving myself," admitted Daniels.

"I have seen what it can do. It can cause death. I can heed to that warning also," said Daniels. "It's going to do me a favor and everybody else. A lot of people don't think about it, but at the same time it really can help".
    
And folks at AAA hope the sign will make others think twice before texting and driving.

"If you've ever been on the road behind someone who was texting and driving, than you have seen the weaving in and out," said Cindy Antrican with AAA Dayton and Miami Valley. "It's very dangerous".    

Starting Friday, texting and driving could be costly too. That's when the 6 month "texting ban" grace period ends and tickets will be issued.

Under the law, teens are "not" allowed to use any electronic devices in the car to talk, text, or GPS. A first violation will result in $150 fine and 60 days suspended license.  If caught a second time, the fine jumps to $300 and a license suspension of one year.

For drivers over 18, the law is a little more lenient. Texting and driving is a minor misdemeanor and will result in a fine up to $150.

Exceptions include preprogrammed GPS's, cars in parked position that are not on the roadway and emergency calls to fire, police or hospitals.