Ohio is ranked ninth in US with the most dangerous driving conditions. Here’s why
The fall season is one of the most dangerous seasons for driving.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), August to November have the highest fatal crashes and crash rates.
In addition to the month, the day that the most crashes occur is Sunday with a whopping 5,591 crashes.
Weather is a factor in fatal crashes
Of course, several factors cause these crashes, such as distracted driving or speeding. However, weather is another significant contributing element.
A recent study by Richmond Vona, a personal injury firm, used statistics from the NHTSA to see which states have the most dangerous driving conditions and why.
The research was astounding, especially when examining crashes in bad weather like rain or snow.
“Poor weather is present in one in ten fatal crashes across the U.S., bumping up annual figures by thousands each year. The poorest driving conditions happened mostly outside the South, where rain and snow are more common. The light condition was less important; most crashes happened during daylight, regardless of the weather. While poor weather can make driving dangerous, the biggest determining factor is always the driver and how responsible they are behind the wheel,” said a spokesperson from Richmond Vona.
According to NHTSA statistics and additional research by Richmond Vona, the top five states with the highest crash rate during lousy weather are as follows:
- Number 1: Alaska. A quarter of all fatal crashes (25%) in Alaska occur during snow. Almost one in five fatal crashes is due to snow in the state.
- Number 2: West Virginia
- 3: Washington
- 4: Virginia
- 5: Wyoming
So, what about Ohio?
Here’s how Ohio ranked
Ohio made the study’s top ten.
Coming in at ninth, Ohio’s rain significantly increases crash rates.
Where there’s rain, there’s wet roads, the risk of hydroplaning, and more.
13% of all fatal crashes occur when there is dangerous weather conditions like rain (light or heavy) in Ohio.
Specifically, rain occurred during one in ten crashes in the state, which is 14th nationwide.
Tips for driving during dangerous road conditions
According to the NHTSA, staying off the road as much as possible is important when severe weather is in effect.
If you find yourself on the road during rain, sleet, snow, or other bad weather, the NHTSA encourages you to keep the following in mind:
While you’re on the road:
- Drive Slowly. It’s harder to control or stop your vehicle on a slick road. Increase your following distance so you’ll have plenty of time to stop for vehicles ahead of you. Also, remember that every vehicle handles differently; this is particularly true when driving on wet roads.
- Turn Around Don’t Drown. People often underestimate the power of rushing water. It only takes 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, and just two feet of rushing water can carry away most trucks and SUVs. The CDC reports the most common type of flood-related drowning occurs when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water. When you see the road is flooded, or if barriers are blocking the road, turn around.
- Look Out for Pedestrians and Cyclists. Always be extra cautious in hard-to-see conditions, like nighttime or in bad weather.
Before You Go:
- Plan Your Travel and Route. Before heading out, make sure to check the road conditions and traffic. Check local stations for road closures and evacuation routes, if necessary.
- Stock Your Vehicle. Put together an emergency roadside kit. Inclement weather can develop quickly, so plan ahead and prepare in advance. A charged cell phone tops the list of suggested items since it allows you to call for help when and where you need it.
Have more questions? Comment below or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com
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