Ohio Road Trip Safety: What Every Driver Should Know Before Hitting The Highway
Summer road trips are one of Ohio’s great seasonal traditions. Whether you are heading to Cedar Point, Hocking Hills, or beyond, putting miles on the road with family and friends is hard to beat.
Unfortunately, increased traffic, fatigue, new surroundings and distracted driving make summer one of the most dangerous times of year in terms of car accidents. Our experienced Sandusky car crash lawyers explain the risks and how to protect yourself behind the wheel.
How Summer Road Trips Increase Sandusky Car Crash Risks
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) warns that the summer months are among the most dangerous times of year to be on the road. As more people travel and take road trips, traffic increases, along with the potential for reckless driving.
Factors that make road trip driving particularly hazardous on Ohio highways and increase the risk of Sandusky car crashes include:
- Drowsy driving from long hours behind the wheel, particularly on high-traffic corridors like the Ohio Turnpike, I-71, and U.S. Route 30.
- Distracted driving from phone use, GPS adjustments, and in-vehicle entertainment systems.
- Impaired driving, which includes marijuana and prescription drugs.
- Speeding and aggressive driving are common as motorists rush to reach their destinations.
Being aware of these risks and taking precautions can reduce the likelihood of Sandusky car crashes and the serious personal injuries that can result.
How To Protect Yourself On An Ohio Road Trip This Summer
Whether you are headed out on vacation, driving around town, or simply commuting to work, the Ohio Department of Transportation warns all motorists to be aware of how summer can increase car crash risks. If you are planning a road trip, take these precautions to keep yourself and your passengers safe:
- Plan your route and identify rest stops every two hours or 100 miles to avoid the effects of prolonged driving.
- Get a full night of sleep before departing, as starting a long drive already fatigued dramatically increases the risk of a crash.
- Keep your phone out of reach and program the GPS before leaving, not while driving.
- Check tire pressure, fluid levels, and lights before any long-distance trip to reduce the risk of mechanical failure on the road.
- Make sure all passengers buckle up.
- If you are on certain types of medicine or plan on having even one or two drinks during your trip, let someone else drive.
Despite these precautions, car crashes can still happen. If you are involved in a collision, notify the police, obtain the driver’s contact information, seek medical attention, and contact our experienced Sandusky car crash lawyers before making any statements to insurers.
Contact Our Experienced Sandusky Car Crash Lawyers Today
Car crashes in Sandusky are common over the summer months and can cause devastating injuries. When others are to blame, our Sandusky car crash lawyers provide the professional and experienced legal representation you need to get compensation.
To schedule a consultation, call Murray & Murray or request one online today. We serve clients throughout Sandusky, Ohio, and the surrounding areas.
Sources:
crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/809855
transportation.ohio.gov/about-us/news/statewide/safety-top-of-mind-as-summer-travel-season-begins