Roadside accidents can be deadly, but they are preventable
Some car accidents in Ohio involve vehicles that are pulled over to the side of the road, even if that vehicle has flashing lights. An approaching car or truck then crashes into the vehicle. Hundreds of people are killed or injured in the U.S. in these types of accidents each year.
All drivers who see a vehicle on the side of the road should move over one lane and slow down when passing to reduce the risk of a collision. It’s not just the safe thing to do – it’s the law.
Ohio’s Move Over law was originally passed in 1999 to protect law enforcement officers and emergency responders on all roadways. In 2013, the Move Over law was expanded to include any parked vehicle with flashing lights – such as road construction, maintenance, utility crews, and disabled vehicles (e.g., a driver with a flat tire).
A national problem on all roads and highways
The law was enacted because, unfortunately, it is needed. Between 2015 and 2020, there were 5,226 roadside crashes involving:
- Law enforcement (42%)
- Construction, maintenance, or utility workers (40%)
- Fire or ambulance (10%)
- Towing vehicles (4%)
- Other vehicles (4%)
According to crash statistics, roadside accidents kill one tow truck driver every six days, one law enforcement officer and 23 highway workers each month, and five firefighters each year.
Violators of the Ohio law face a misdemeanor charge and up to double the fine of $150 for a first violation. A second violation within a year of the first can result in up to double the fine of $250. More than two violations in a year can result in up to double the fine of $500.
What if there’s no room to move over?
There are situations in which traffic or weather conditions make it impossible to move over – or there may not be a second lane. But drivers are still required to slow down and proceed with caution, being prepared to stop if necessary.
When a negligent driver fails to follow the Move Over law, there can be a collision that leaves people seriously injured. Medical expenses can add up fast, and victims may not be able to work because of their injuries. This can lead to financial stress.
Our Ohio car accident lawyers hold negligent drivers accountable
You deserve financial compensation if a reckless driver caused an accident that left you or a loved one hurt. But negligent drivers often deny doing anything wrong and refuse to accept responsibility. Insurance companies may question the seriousness of your injuries. They may make a lowball settlement offer or even try to blame you for what happened.
That’s why you need an experienced Ohio car accident lawyer on your side. The attorneys at Gervelis Law Firm know how to build strong cases that insurance companies have to take seriously. We can investigate your accident and deal directly with insurance companies on your behalf. We know how to get the results you need and deserve.
If you were hurt in a crash in Columbus, Canfield, Akron, Toledo, or anywhere in Ohio, we can help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We can review the details of your accident, go over your legal options for compensation, and answer any questions you have.