Car accidents are stressful and can leave you feeling vulnerable, frustrated and in pain. In order to protect yourself and your loved ones from traffic collisions in Ohio, follow safe driving rules. Avoid common mistakes, and understand what other drivers are doing in your community.
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2019 Ohio Traffic Collision Statistics
According to Ohio State Highway Patrol data, 2019 has seen some of the deadliest months for Ohio drivers. More than 1,100 people were killed in traffic crashes in the Buckeye State this year, up almost 10% from the year before.
Although winter roads are typically more of a challenge to drive due to snow and ice, more injuries and fatalities occurred this past year in the summer months. This data suggests that most traffic collisions in Ohio happen because of motorist error, rather than poor road conditions on Interstate 675.
Statistics show that the most common causes of the 2019 traffic collisions in Ohio include:
- Ignoring stop signs or red lights – in an effort to get to destinations quickly, motorists run stop signs or red lights and cause serious accidents as a result
- Failing to yield – accidents often occur when drivers are merging with existing traffic, entering a road from a driveway or parking lot, or turning left at an intersection
- Tailgating – following too closely is an aggressive driving technique that frequently leads to accidents
- Reversing without caution – drivers backing out of a driveway or parking spot without regard for other vehicles can cause an accident
- Changing lanes without adhering to traffic safety laws – improper lane changing accidents arise when a driver changes lanes in a way that is dangerous, often resulting in multiple vehicle accidents
Car accidents are traumatic, difficult to deal with, and often result in life-long injuries or death. It’s crucial that you practice proper driving techniques in order to avoid common traffic collisions on Ohio roads, discover the need to hire a personal injury lawyer and keep yourself and others safe.
How to Avoid Traffic Collisions in Ohio
While not all traffic collisions in Ohio are avoidable, there are a variety of ways you can reduce your risk of becoming involved in them. By practicing good driving habits, you can continue to stay safe on the road.
Eliminate Distractions
When you’re driving, you shouldn’t be worried about anything else. Your vehicle isn’t the place for multi-tasking, eating, drinking, shuffling music, shaving or texting. By eliminating distractions, you can concentrate solely on your driving, and avoid causing or being part of a traffic collision in Ohio.
Obey the Speed Limit
Driving too fast down Interstate 675 decreases your reaction time. Stopping suddenly for pedestrians, slowing for other traffic, or avoiding other drivers’ mistakes becomes increasingly difficult when driving over the speed limit. By following posted guidelines, you can ensure that you have the time needed to react on time, and slow down when necessary.
Follow the Rules of the Road
Just like speed limits on Interstate 675, there are other rules of the road that you must follow to avoid traffic collisions in Ohio, and getting traffic tickets. All traffic signs are there for a reason. By understanding what each rule means, you can react quickly to potential hazards that can cause an accident.
Never Drive Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol
When you’re drinking, you don’t have the same abilities that you do when you’re sober, and that includes the ability to drive safely. Your judgement is impaired, and your vision may not be the greatest either.
If you’re caught drinking and driving in Lima, Dayton or anywhere else in Ohio, you may find yourself paying a huge fine, having your vehicle impounded, or heading to jail. If you’re going to drink, find alternate transportation, such as a designated driver, taxi or bus. Remember, this also includes driving while under the influence of any drugs or narcotics such as marijuana.
Ignore Aggressive Drivers
Some drivers don’t follow the rules of the road and like to speed, ignore road signs, and cut other drivers off. The best thing to do in a case like this is to try and get as far out of their way as possible. If they’re tailgating you or honking their horn, slow down to let them pass. The quicker you can get them away from you, the safer you will be.
When you’re practicing safe driving skills, make sure that you always pay attention to your own driving and that of others around you. Be sensible when you are behind the wheel, and you will be safe when you arrive at your destination.
What To Do After A Traffic Collision in Ohio
Accidents are a shocking and traumatizing experience. Because the physical and emotional stress is high, it’s often challenging to follow a plan of action. Here’s a short checklist to help you in the event you’re involved in a traffic collision in Ohio:
- Ensure that the drivers have stopped their vehicles, moved safely away from traffic, and turned on the hazard lights
- Call medical services and police to the scene
- Take pictures of the damaged vehicles, roadways and injuries
- Obtain driver information, including name, driver’s license number, and insurance company
- Obtain any witness statements
- Contact your personal injury lawyer for counsel
- Personal injury lawyers can help manage all the details of your case while you rest and focus on recovering from injuries. They can help you find the right doctors, negotiate medical bills, complete insurance documentation, and help you recover from any financial burdens caused by the accident.
Quick Answers
How to Avoid Traffic Collisions in Ohio
1. Eliminate Distractions
2. Obey the Speed Limit
3. Follow the Rules of the Road
4. Never Drive Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol
5. Ignore Aggressive Drivers
What To Do After A Traffic Collision in Ohio
– Ensure that the drivers have stopped their vehicles, moved safely away from traffic, and turned on the hazard lights
– Call medical services and police to the scene
– Take pictures of the damaged vehicles, roadways and injuries
– Obtain driver information, including name, driver’s license number, and insurance company
– Obtain any witness statements
– Contact your personal injury lawyer for counsel
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Prior to forming Dyer, Garofalo, Mann & Schultz, Doug worked as a bodily injury claims adjuster for a large insurance company. This unique experience has been a tremendous asset to Doug in his fight to achieve maximum cash settlements for his clients in minimum time. Since departing from the insurance company, Doug has dedicated his entire legal career to helping injured clients when they need it the most.
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