Deadly accidents caused by speeding can be prevented.
Summer is a time of joy and relaxation for many, especially for teenagers who are out of school and ready to enjoy the summer break. However, this season also brings a dark cloud over the roads. Teen driver fatalities and car accidents tend to increase during the summer months.
In Ohio, almost 40% of teen fatal driving accidents happen between Memorial Day and Labor Day, known as the "100 Deadliest Days" for teen drivers.
The more everyone knows about teen drivers and crashes involving teen drivers, the more can be done to prevent these devastating accidents. Here's what you need to know about teen drivers in Ohio.
Ohio teen-involved car accidents statistics
Compared to other states, Ohio ranks in the middle for annual teen driving fatalities reported, according to data compiled by Bumper.com. However, one death is too many. Last year, there were about 120 teen-related fatal crashes in Ohio. The following statistics are for teen-related accidents in 2021, as provided by the Ohio State Highway Patrol:
- Statewide, there were 37,625 teen-involved car accidents in 2021.
- Over 10,000 teen-related crashes led to severe injuries or deaths that year.
- Top crash routes for Ohio teens included I-75, US-20, US-42, and I-71.
- Cuyahoga County was among the Ohio counties reporting the most crashes involving teenagers. In 2021, there were nearly 3,300 teen crashes in Cuyahoga County.
- The most dangerous road for teens to drive in Cuyahoga County was I-90.
- The most common crash variables in Ohio teen accidents were distracted driving, immaturity, failure to yield, operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol (OVI), and speeding.
Speeding is a leading cause of teen driver accidents
Ohio's struggle with teen driver fatalities is not an isolated incident but instead reflects a nationwide issue. The United States experiences "stubbornly high" teen driving death rates compared to other developed nations.
Among the various factors contributing to the high fatality rates, speeding is a primary cause of teen driver accidents. AAA reports that the "100 Deadliest Days" for teen drivers is primarily due to excessive speed. Because speeding is almost always a choice, speed-related accidents can be prevented.
Addressing the issue of speeding requires a multifaceted approach involving various stakeholders, including parents, law enforcement, educators, and community members, AAA and other safety advocates say. Here are a few general ways communities can reduce speeding and related crashes:
- Education. Raise awareness among teenagers and their parents about the risks associated with speeding. Conduct educational campaigns in schools, distribute informative materials, and organize community events that highlight the importance of responsible driving.
- Strengthen traffic laws and enforcement. Advocate for stricter penalties for speeding offenses and press for their consistent enforcement. Increased police presence on the roads, especially during high-risk periods, can act as a deterrent to speeding and improve compliance with traffic laws.
- Get parents involved. Parents can actively participate in their teens' driving education and enforce responsible driving habits. Setting a good example by following traffic laws and discussing the dangers of speeding can significantly influence a teenager's driving behavior.
How an Ohio car accident lawyer can help
Serious teen car accidents increase in the summer. Raising awareness and campaigning for better roadway safety may reduce the risks, but accidents will still occur. When accidents happen in Ohio, Gervelis Law Firm is here to help. Our experienced team of Ohio car accident lawyers understands the complexities of teen-involved car accident cases and can provide you with a free case consultation. Contact our firm today to schedule your free consultation and learn more about your legal options and rights.