Winter driving in Ohio presents unique challenges, as snow, ice, and slush make roads more hazardous. While the 2021-22 winter season saw fewer overall car accidents than the previous year, statistics show that icy conditions remain a serious safety risk for drivers. Understanding these risks and taking proactive measures can help keep you and your loved ones stay safe on the road during the winter.
During the winter of 2021-22, Ohio experienced 12,939 crashes on roads covered in snow, ice, or slush, a 12% decrease from the previous winter. However, weather patterns influenced these numbers. For example, crashes in December and February dropped, but January 2022 saw double the number of crashes of the previous year, and March 2022 witnessed a staggering 1,200% increase.
Tragically, 17 fatal crashes during this period resulted in 17 lives lost. However, this was a decrease from the 26 fatal crashes and 33 deaths in the winter of 2020-21. Additionally, 3,364 people sustained injuries last winter in weather-related car accidents.
What are the leading causes of crashes during the winter?
The weather doesn't necessarily cause car accidents. It's the way drivers behave during inclement weather that leads to collisions. For example, speed continues to be a leading factor in winter crashes, with 21% caused by unsafe speed. Wet, icy, and snowy roads require more time and distance to stop or slow down. Drivers who travel at unreasonable speeds during these conditions don't have enough time and distance to stop and often cause serious crashes, especially on high-speed roadways.
Other major causes included drivers departing the roadway (18%) and following too closely (13%). Additionally, drowsy driving is a common cause of winter car accidents due to the shorter days. Research shows that shorter days actually make people more tired. This creates the risk of falling asleep at the wheel or experiencing diminished judgment.
How can Ohio drivers stay safe during the winter?
To reduce your risk of a car accident during Ohio's winter months, preparation is key. Here are some actionable tips to stay safe:
- Prepare your vehicle: Check your battery, cooling system, tires, windshield wipers, and defrosters to ensure your car is winter-ready. Addressing these issues in advance can prevent breakdowns in severe weather.
- Drive slowly and cautiously: Winter roads demand extra caution. Accelerating, braking, and turning take more time on icy or snow-covered surfaces. Slow down to give yourself plenty of time and space to maneuver safely.
- Maintain a safe following distance: Keep extra distance between your car and others. Following too closely increases your chance of a collision, especially on slippery roads.
- Carry a winter emergency kit: Keep a kit in your car for unexpected situations. Include a flashlight, jumper cables, flares, a small shovel, a blanket, non-perishable food, and water. These items can be lifesavers if you get stranded.
- Stay informed: Check the weather conditions before you leave home. Allow yourself plenty of time to reach your destination, or consider canceling your trip if necessary.
Injured in a winter crash? Get Tom Merriman on your side.
While we can do our best to stay safe this winter season, we can't always predict the actions of other drivers. If you were hurt in a car accident caused by someone else's negligence, you could be facing medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the stress of dealing with insurance companies. But you shouldn't have to pay for someone else's negligence. That's why the Ohio car accident lawyers at Merriman Legal, LLC in Cleveland are committed to protecting your rights and fighting for fair compensation while you focus on recovery.
We handle every aspect of your claim, including dealing with insurance companies, gathering evidence, and calculating the full extent of your damages. And with our contingency fee structure, you pay nothing upfront. Our fee only comes from your settlement or verdict so that you can focus on healing without financial worry.
Contact us today to discuss your case with an experienced Cleveland car accident lawyer. We’ll meet you where it’s most convenient and get started immediately. From the moment you speak to us, you’ll see how dedicated we are to protecting your rights.
"Tom Merriman is the best lawyer around! I am so happy that I "made his team my team." Not only did he provide excellent service, but we were reassured the whole time. My family is ever so grateful to have Tom and his team on our side and we have made a friend and lawyer for life!" ─ Sandy, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
