Ohio’s roads have become increasingly dangerous over the last decade, according to a new traffic safety study. Despite efforts to enhance road safety and a brief period of decline, the state has witnessed a 26 percent increase in traffic fatalities from 2013 to 2023.
This alarming trend, reflective of a broader national issue, underscores the urgent need for protective measures and informed legal guidance, according to researchers at The Roadway Information Program, or TRIP, a nonprofit transportation research group.
As Cleveland car accident attorneys, Merriman Legal, LLC is dedicated to justice and safety. That’s why we know how important it is to share critical insights on this significant hazard to life and safety.
The rising trend – what you need to know
Recent data reveals a concerning rise in traffic-related deaths across Ohio, with fatalities soaring from 989 to 1,242 over 10 years. This spike not only mirrors national statistics but also highlights prevalent risky behaviors such as speeding, impaired driving, and distracted driving as significant contributory factors.
For individuals and families navigating the aftermath of a traffic accident, understanding these trends is crucial for seeking rightful compensation and fostering safer driving practices.
The increase in traffic fatalities encompasses specific behaviors and victim demographics. Here are some key takeaways from a recent study:
- Speeding-related crashes rose by 21 percent around the U.S.
- Driving under the influence is up 29 percent
- Distracted driving is up 16 percent
- Motorcycle riders make up less than 1 percent of miles traveled in the U.S. annually, yet they represent 16 percent of traffic deaths nationwide.
- Nationally, crashes in 2023 inflicted an estimated $460 billion in economic damages and nearly $1.4 trillion in quality-of-life costs, with Ohio bearing $15.5 billion and $47.1 billion of these expenses, respectively.
- The situation in work zones is particularly concerning, with Ohio ranking 10th for work zone fatalities nationally. Ohio work zone accidents were involved in 106 deaths over the last five years.
In response to the rising tide of road accidents, federal and state-level initiatives have been launched to curb this trend. The 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act represents a significant commitment towards improving road safety, with Ohio investing in programs like Safe Routes to School to protect the most vulnerable.
Ohio car accident attorneys who demand justice
While it might seem straightforward to handle a car accident by simply contacting the police or insurance companies, these cases often become complex with issues such as the other driver’s denial of fault and insurance companies’ striving to minimize or deny claims, necessitating the skills of an experienced lawyer.
At Merriman Legal, LLC, our commitment extends beyond the courtroom. We are staunch advocates for safety, justice, and the well-being of our communities. Given the disturbing rise in traffic fatalities, our role in providing experienced, aggressive legal representation to injured accident victims is even more critical.
If you were injured or a loved one was killed in an Ohio crash, our Cleveland car accident lawyers stand ready to guide and represent you, ensuring you receive the compensation and support you deserve. Contact us to schedule a no-cost consultation to learn more about how the law applies to your specific situation and the full value of your claim.
