Everyone likes to label some place as having the worst drivers in America. While you may think that most of that is just opinion, sometimes, facts validate assumptions. According to a list QuoteWizard compiled, Ohio came in eighth place for bad driving. At the top was Maine, with Michigan earning bragging rights for the best motorists.
Taking a closer look at the state’s accident statistics, however, can give a clearer picture of what driving is like in Ohio. Some areas have room for improvement, whereas others have gotten better.
Fatalities
The same number of traffic deaths (788) occurred this year as it did last year by this same time (September 15). Only Hamilton County has actually seen a decrease by five fatalities. Motorcycle deaths have gone down in the state after a spike in 2016.
Police stops
The quantity of enforcement police stops decreased from 2018. There were fewer instances of the following:
- OVI
- Driving with a suspended license
- Resisted arrests
- Seatbelt enforcement
- Weapons violations
- Investigated crashes
Stops not related to enforcing law, such as assisting a driver in need of help or only handing out a warning, also saw a decline.
OVI
While operating a vehicle impaired seems to be heading downward, the numbers for Hamilton County are still high. It comes in fourth for most OVI arrests. First place goes to Franklin County, where Columbus lies. Ohio State University’s location there may play a role in the high numbers.
Hamilton County also places fourth in drug arrests, with Cuyahoga County (Cleveland area) sitting at the top spot.
The bottom line
No matter where you go, there will be awful drivers and poor traffic conditions that affect the risk of accident and injury. All you can do is your part in staying safe on the road at all times, especially in such circumstances like inclement weather, holidays and night driving.
