OH HB279

Drivers who fail to maintain proof of financial responsibility at the time of an accident cannot recover noneconomic damages if their license was impounded for a violation within the preceding seven years.

The restriction does not apply if the noneconomic loss was caused by a driver convicted of a four or six-point offense or convicted of texting while driving.

Wrongful death actions and drivers under age 18 are exempt from this restriction.

"Noneconomic loss" is defined by reference to section 2307.011 of the Revised Code.

The law takes effect 90 days after the bill's effective date.