Navigating the Roads Safely

 

Driving is a daily necessity, but it’s crucial to acknowledge the risks before getting on the road to ensure you navigate the roads safely. Mastering the skill of driving is vital for everyone, but it can also be perilous, especially in unfamiliar areas. To ensure your safety, as well as that of others, you need to understand your local surroundings well. This includes identifying potential hazards, planning routes effectively, adapting to changing weather conditions, following traffic regulations, and practicing mindful driving. In Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan, road safety depends greatly on your understanding and awareness of the local environment.

 

Accident Statistics

 

According to the Michigan State Police’s Annual Accident Summary for 2022, there were a total of 312,798 reported crashes, with 1,047 resulting in fatalities. The Ohio State Patrol reported a total of 67,840 crashes with 900 fatalities. The National Highway Safety Administration’s 2022 Traffic Safety Facts report showed that the overall number of crashes was down slightly from the previous year, but fatalities increased by an alarming 7.2%.

 

Impact on Individuals

 

Personal injury negligence is a serious issue that can cause harm, both physically and mentally. Statistics show that approximately 2.35 million people are injured or disabled due to car accidents alone in the United States.

 

Causes of Accidents

 

When it comes to the causes of these accidents, the Michigan State Police report blames driver error as the leading cause, followed by equipment failure, weather, and road conditions. The Ohio State Patrol report claims that failure to control a vehicle or follow traffic signals were the leading causes of accidents, followed by speeding and alcohol impairment. The National Highway Safety Administration points to distracted driving, drunk driving, and speeding as the leading causes of fatal accidents in the United States.

 

Are you prepared for the road ahead?

 

No matter where you live, driving can be dangerous. From bad weather conditions to distracted drivers, countless factors can cause accidents on the roads. However, certain areas have a slightly higher risk than others. In Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan, there are a few roads that drivers should take extra precautions with.

 

I-75

I-75 is one of the busiest highways in Ohio and Michigan, running from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula all the way to Miami, FL. The stretch of I-75 that intersects the cities of Toledo, OH, and Detroit, MI, is known for its heavy traffic, construction work, and numerous accidents. The Ohio State Patrol reported 2,871 crashes on this portion of the highway in 2020, resulting in 22 fatalities. Meanwhile, Michigan State Police reported 264 crashes and 12 fatalities in the first quarter of 2021.

 

I-94

Likewise, I-94 is a major interstate highway that connects Chicago, IL, to Detroit, MI, via Northwest Indiana and Southwest Michigan. The stretch of I-94 running between Detroit and Ann Arbor, MI, is particularly congested and has seen a high number of accidents in recent years. In 2020, Ohio State Patrol reported 1,950 crashes on this stretch of road, leading to 12 fatalities. Meanwhile, Michigan State Police reported 197 crashes and seven fatalities in the first quarter of 2021.

 

US-23

 

US-23 runs north-south through portions of Ohio and Michigan, connecting several cities in the region. Unfortunately, US-23 has a history of serious accidents, particularly in Monroe and Livingston Counties in Michigan. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 33 fatalities on US-23 in Michigan between 2015 and 2018.

 

US-24

 

US-23 runs north-south through portions of Ohio and Michigan, connecting several regional cities, including Sylvania, OH, Milan, MI, and Ann Arbor, MI. Unfortunately, US-23 has a history of serious accidents, particularly in Monroe and Livingston Counties in Michigan. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 33 fatalities on US-23 in Michigan between 2015 and 2018.

 

OH-2

OH-2 is an east-west state highway that runs through Ohio, connecting several cities and tourist attractions. However, the portion of OH-2 that runs through Ottawa County, OH, is considered one of the most dangerous highways in the state. In 2020, Ohio State Patrol reported 62 crashes on this stretch of road, leading to four fatalities.

 

The Michigan-Ohio Border

 

Finally, it’s worth mentioning that the Michigan-Ohio border can also pose its own hazards. As drivers cross the state line, they may encounter new roads and unfamiliar traffic patterns. Likewise, different speed limit laws in each state can also cause confusion and potential accidents if one is not paying attention. Always approach border crossings with extra caution.

 

 

If you experience a car accident in Northwest Ohio or Southeast Michigan 

 

 

Accidents can happen unexpectedly, but it’s crucial to exercise extra caution when navigating the roads in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. Drivers must take additional safety measures, especially on busy interstates. Adhering to traffic rules, avoiding distractions, and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles are essential to ensure a safe driving experience. In the unfortunate event of an accident, it may be beneficial to consider seeking legal guidance from a personal injury attorney to navigate the legal process and seek fair compensation.

 

 

Get Experienced Personal Injury Attorneys on Your Side.

 

After a car accident, it is crucial to hire a personal injury attorney who can protect your interests. An experienced attorney will assist you in navigating the complex legal process, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and ensuring that you understand your rights and options. They will evaluate whether filing a personal injury claim is appropriate and estimate potential compensation.

When selecting a personal injury attorney, it is essential to choose someone with expertise in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. The attorneys at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneult law firm possess in-depth knowledge of local courts, insurance companies, and laws, significantly improving your chances of success.

While highways offer convenience and efficiency, they can also pose risks if we are not cautious. To ensure safety, it is vital to stay alert, wear seatbelts, avoid distractions, and follow traffic laws. If you or someone you know has been injured in a highway accident, seek legal assistance from our experienced Personal Injury attorneys. Contact us at 419-843-6663 or fill out our online form. Together, let’s make the roads safer for everyone.