(Cincinnati, Oh.) – Starting Friday, Ohio's ban on texting-while-driving can net you a ticket.

The law went into effect six months ago, but during that time police have only been allowed to give out warnings for drivers caught violating the law. As of midnight March 1, police have the power issue tickets to people caught using electronic devices behind the wheel.

It's a primary offense for drivers under the age of 18, with an automatic fine and license suspension.

Texting and driving is only a secondary offense for adult drivers, meaning they must be pulled over for another traffic offense before they can be ticketed for texting.  

The punishment is a fine of $150 for the first offense and $300 for repeat offenders. Your license could also be suspended for 60 days.

There are some exceptions for the law. It allows room for city ordinances that might be stricter on cell phone use at the wheel. All drivers can text and use their cellphones in cases of an emergency.

LINKS:

Ohio Texting Ban Starts Friday

Ohio Gov. Signs Texting Ban