When it comes to motor vehicle crashes, many people assume that most accidents happen on major freeways. It is a logical conclusion, given the high volume of traffic and heavy vehicles that move each day through Ohio on these highways.
However, the truth is that more accidents take place on local roads than on big highways. That is why road safety is just as important in rural areas as it is in big cities. Here is some information about road safety and avoiding injury behind the wheel:
Local roads and driver safety
The Ohio Department of Transportation says that there are 2.5 times more fatalities due to serious crashes on local Ohio roads than on highways. It says this is because there are greater opportunities for distractions on these roads, as well as particular conditions, such as narrow two-lane roads, that are not present on freeways. Although the speeds may be slower and thus it may seem that the chance for a crash is lower, this is not the case. It is important to remember that distracted driving, drunk driving and other road hazards are present throughout the Ohio road system, but given this statistic, you should take extra care when driving in local areas.
Personal injuries from motor vehicle accidents
Some of the most dangerous roads in Ohio are actually state roads such as State Routes 8, 2, 5 and 11. This reaffirms the Ohio DOT statistic that rural roads are more dangerous; serious injuries can result from accidents on these roads. A report by the Ohio Department of Public Safety said that 22 people are in a motor vehicle crash in Ohio every 15 minutes, and four of those 22 suffer injuries or a fatality. Oftentimes, an injury in a motor vehicle accident is due to the negligence of another driver on the road.
Medical bills and lost wages due to missed days at work because of your injuries can add up fast. If you suffer an injury in a car crash, you should look into your rights under the law and how you may seek compensation for your injuries.