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High-speed collisions on Ohio highways and interstates often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. With heavy traffic, distracted drivers, and reckless speeding, these roads are some of the most dangerous in the state. You may be entitled to compensation if you or a loved one was injured in a highway crash.
At Kisling, Nestico & Redick, our experienced Ohio highway accident lawyers know how to hold negligent drivers accountable and secure the compensation you deserve. Call 1-800-HURT-NOW for a free consultation. Our car accident lawyers will review what happened and explain your options.
What to Do After an Ohio Highway Auto Accident
You may be confused and overwhelmed after a car accident on a highway or interstate. To keep yourself safe and protect your rights, follow these steps:
- Call the police – The police will record the important facts about your accident and file a report you can use later on to support your case.
- Don’t admit fault – Apologizing or admitting fault may make you responsible for an accident caused by someone else’s negligence. Therefore, you should remain calm and wait until you speak with your attorney.
- Preserve evidence – Take photographs of the accident scene, all vehicles involved, and any injuries sustained.
- Collect contact info – You should write down the name, contact information, and insurance details of all drivers involved. Write down the contact information of any witnesses, as well.
- Contact our interstate accident lawyers – Rather than trying to handle an accident claim alone, seek legal representation immediately. A lawyer with experience in high-speed highway collisions can help you determine who is at fault and guide you through the claims process so you may obtain fair compensation for your damages.
Most Dangerous Highway in Ohio: I-71
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, I-71 is the most dangerous highway in Ohio. On average, there are 18 fatalities each year on this Ohio highway that continues to Louisville, Kentucky.
Sadly, most drivers disregard speed limits, take risks, and try to weave in and out of traffic to get to their destination quicker on I-71. Since reckless driving is clearly common on this highway, drive with extra caution if you have to travel on it.
Highway Accident Risks Across Ohio
Ohio is a major transportation corridor, crisscrossed by several high-traffic interstates and highways that see a disproportionate share of serious car accidents. I-71, which stretches from Cleveland through Columbus to Cincinnati, is consistently ranked among the deadliest highways in the state, with a high rate of speed-related and commercial vehicle crashes.
Other hazardous routes include:
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I-70, a major east-west corridor from Dayton to Zanesville, known for frequent rear-end and pileup crashes, especially near construction zones.
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I-75, which cuts through Toledo and Dayton, is prone to serious accidents involving tractor-trailers and aggressive merging.
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I-77, connecting Akron and Canton, has sharp curves and congestion that contribute to sideswipe collisions and high-speed rollovers.
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I-90, running along Lake Erie from Cleveland to the Pennsylvania border, is vulnerable to winter-related crashes and poor
What Causes Ohio Highway & Interstate Auto Accidents?
Since all types of vehicles can be involved in highway and interstate crashes, our firm has experience representing clients injured in car, truck, motorcycle, and bus accidents. Some of the most common causes of highway and interstate accidents include:
Speeding
The speed limit on most Ohio highways and interstates is 65 or 70 miles per hour. Unfortunately, many drivers exceed the speed limit and find controlling or stopping their vehicles challenging.
Distracted Driving
Activities such as texting, talking to passengers, eating, drinking, and applying makeup can take a driver’s eyes off the road and cause an accident.
Driving Under the Influence
Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs lack the cognitive skills to drive safely on highways and interstates.
Road Construction
Ohio highways and interstates have earned the reputation of always being under construction. Construction can easily confuse drivers and lead to a wreck.
Defective Roads
Uneven pavement, potholes, or other road defects can increase the risk for a highway or interstate accident.
Poorly Designed Ramps
Poorly designed ramps can make entering and exiting highways and interstates a dangerous maneuver.
If any of the above hazards caused you to get into a crash on an Ohio highway, contact the Ohio highway and interstate accident lawyers at Kisling, Nestico & Redick for help beginning the legal process.
How to Prevent Ohio Highway Accidents
Fortunately, the majority of highway and interstate accidents can be prevented if every driver does their part and drives defensively. Here’s how you can reduce the risk of these accident arising:
Never Drink & Drive
If you’re planning to drink, be sure to recruit a designated driver, take an Uber, or spend the night at a friend’s house.
Avoid Aggressive Drivers
Try to safely get out of the way of aggressive drivers, follow the speed limit, and avoid making eye contact with anyone who is driving aggressively.
Keep Your Attention on the Road
Even taking your attention away from the road for one second can cause an accident. For this reason, you should never eat, drink, play with your radio, text, or engage in any other form of distracted driving.
Do Not Drive if You Are Drowsy
You should always be alert and awake while behind the wheel. Be sure to get enough sleep, drive with your head up and shoulders back, and take breaks on long road trips.
Compensation Available in Highway & Interstate Accidents
If your highway accident attorney determines your accident was the result of another party’s negligence, you may recover compensation for:
- Vehicle damage
- Medical bills
- Lost wages due to missed work
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Wrongful death
