2017 Ohio Traffic Crash Statistics

Each year, the Ohio Department of Public Safety shares traffic crash statistics with the general public. The organization discovered that 303, 298 traffic crashes occurred on Ohio roads in 2017. Although this was a slight decrease from 2016 when there were 305, 955 collisions, these accidents led to 108, 801 injuries and 1,179 fatalities.

If you or someone you loved sustained an injury in a traffic crash that was the result of someone else’s negligence, contact the highly skilled Ohio car accident lawyers with KNR today.

Call Kisling, Nestico & Redick at 1-800-HURT-NOW or online for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Details on the 2017 Traffic Crash Statistics

In 2017, there were approximately three fatal crashes every day. Drivers who were impaired by alcohol were involved in 3.85 percent of all crashes, and 26.63 percent of all fatalities. It’s surprising that 119, 811 accidents occurred during daylight when road conditions were more visible, and 84,532 took place at night.

More injuries and fatalities occurred in the summer months than the winter months. This is interesting as the winter roads are typically more of a challenge to drive on as a result of the snow and ice. It indicates that most accidents in Ohio happen because of motorist error rather than poor road conditions.

Of the 303,298 traffic crashes that happened in 2017, 87, 484 were rear-end collisions, and 5,594 were head-on collisions. Some of the most common causes of the 2017 traffic accidents in Ohio include:

• Failure to yield: When a driver ignores the rules of right away and proceeds into traffic, failure to yield occurs. Failure to yield accidents are often seen when drivers are entering a road from a driveway or parking lot, turning left at an intersection, or merging with existing traffic.
• Following too closely: Also known as tailgating, following too closely is an aggressive driving technique that frequently leads to accidents. Drivers should stay at least two seconds behind the vehicle in front of them.
• Improper lane changing: Improper lane changing accidents arise when a driver changes lanes in a way that is dangerous or does not adhere to traffic safety laws. Sometimes, these crashes involve multiple vehicles and distracted or reckless driving.
• Incorrect backing: When a driver backs out of a driveway or parking spot without caution, they may collide with another vehicle and cause a crash.
• Running stop signs or red lights: In an effort to get to their destination quickly, some drivers run stop signs or red lights and cause serious accidents as a result.

How to Avoid Traffic Crashes in Ohio

While not all traffic crashes are avoidable, there are a variety of ways you can reduce your risk of becoming involved in them. Our Ohio car accident lawyers recommend the following:

• Reduce distractions: There are a number of distractions that can easily cause car accidents. Save texting, eating, drinking, fiddling with your radio, and other distractions for when you are not behind the wheel.
• Change lanes carefully: Changing lanes abruptly and not failing to use turn signals are a few ways that you may get involved in an accident. Be sure to adhere to all rules and be extra careful when changing lanes.
• Avoid speeding: While it may be tempting to drive faster than the posted limit while you’re running late, doing so can make it difficult to stop if you have to and lead to a serious crash.
• Refrain from drunk driving: One of the most deadly causes of car accidents in Ohio is drunk driving. If you are out drinking, give your keys to a trustworthy friend or opt for a ride-sharing service like Uber.

Contact Kisling, Nestico & Redick

If you get hurt in an Ohio car accident, reach out to the Ohio car accident lawyers at KNR. We can help you determine liability and may be able to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Call KNR at 1-800-HURT-NOW today or submit a request online to schedule a free, no-risk consultation.