While nothing beats driving along the scenic highways and interstates in Ohio, it comes with potential risk.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, 1,360 traffic deaths happened in 2021.
Most dangerous roads
Although accidents happen anywhere on any road, 30 of those fatalities happened on specific sections of three major highways.
- Although I-71 has 248 miles of road, more fatal accidents happen between Exit 110B and Exit 116 than on any other section.
- A connecting interstate, I-75 runs north and south and hits urban areas. Many accidents happen between Allen Road and Exit 14.
- As an auxiliary interstate, I-480 only runs 41.77 miles, but it has become notorious for traffic accidents between Broadview Road and Exit 20A.
Common causes of accidents
While many factors play into severe crashes, a few always top the list. In this day and age, distracted driving has become a serious problem. From texting to changing the radio station or dropping a phone, looking away from the road for a split second may lead to a dangerous situation. Although people know better, drunk driving also tops the list. In the first seven months of 2022, the state patrol cited or arrested 9,182 people for operating a vehicle while impaired. Of course, speeding also ranks high regarding traffic accidents. High rates of speed create a situation for a number of issues that factor into a wreck, including sudden braking and losing control of a vehicle.
Although accidents happen, knowing dangerous roads and staying aware of other drivers may help reduce the chances of a life-changing experience happening.
