Our increasingly busy and distracted world has only raised the level of danger when it comes to auto accidents. Ohio’s multiple large metropolitan areas mean ample opportunity for auto accidents to occur, and the frequency will only continue to grow as the population does. (Ohio State Patrol reported investigating almost 21,000 car crashes in 2020.)
Because of this, it’s essential to know what some of the top reasons are for auto accidents in Ohio. Whether in West Chester, Mason, Hamilton, or anywhere in the Cincinnati metro area, the risk for a personal injury accident is very real. Below, we’ve outlined five of the most common reasons and what you can do to avoid them and look out for others who may be doing this on the road.
- Distracted Driving – Although the technology pumped into modern vehicles is impressive, smartphones, navigation, and more can cause even a split-second swerve from one lane into the other – and that’s all it takes to cause an accident. This year alone in Warren County, there have been 203 distracted driving violations issued – more than all of 2020.
- High Speeds – According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2016, 10,111 lives were lost due to speed-related accidents. Unfortunately, speeding-related casualties and accidents often involve younger and more inexperienced drivers. OSP has already investigated 214 crashes overall in Butler County this year.
- Driving Under the Influence – It goes without saying, operating a motor vehicle under any drug or even one drink can dramatically change driving habits and significantly increase the possibility of an accident. Enforcement stops across the state are way up this year.
- Extended Fatigue – Much like truck drivers and motorcyclists, long hours on the road or even groggy car drivers can experience operational symptoms similar to those intoxicated. Even a 20-minute nap can restore vital cognitive function that could mean the difference between safe driving and an incident.
- Weather – Rain, snow, and other unpredictable conditions create plenty of driving hazards. Ohio drivers are somewhat used to these variable conditions, but newer drivers may not be. Increased awareness is crucial on exceptionally inclement days.
Auto accidents are scary, no matter how minor. Suppose you’ve been involved in an accident due to one of the above reasons or simply another driver’s negligence. In that case, you may have options to recover damages or receive compensation related to the incident. Call the team at Garretson & Holcomb, LLC today at (513) 863-6600 to learn more.
