In 2019, 152 people were killed in commercial motor vehicle-involved collisions in Ohio. The year before, 163 lost their lives. In 2017, 170 did. By and large, the number of fatalities happening each year in this kind of crash is staying close to the same, which is frustrating.
There are some reasons why semitruck crashes are more likely to happen in Ohio than in some other places. For instance, Interstate 77 is heavily traveled by semis heading up toward Cleveland, while I-71 and Route 62 also see their fair share of heavy truck traffic. With these major throughways, it’s not surprising that drivers in the state are familiar with seeing large trucks. It’s even less surprising that crashes involving them happen consistently.
What are some of the causes of large-truck crashes in Ohio?
Many people use the highways in Ohio, which is one of the reasons why passenger vehicles and large trucks are traveling together and more likely to collide. Other causes may include:
- Interstates in Ohio seem to be almost constantly under construction, and those construction zones are often narrow and filled with hazards.
- Stop-and-go traffic in traffic jams.
- Two-lane highways, which may get backed up from semitrucks traveling through the state. Drivers who want to get around these semis may make dangerous lane changes or movements to do so.
There are also specific factors that are a direct result of semitrucks and their drivers. Some of those factors include:
- Not getting enough rest
- Not securing cargo well enough
- Drunk/intoxicated driving
- Tire blowouts
- Speeding
These and other factors may play a role in many of the crashes that take place throughout the state.
Unfortunately, these large trucks weigh much more than smaller passenger vehicles, and colliding with one could mean that your vehicle will be badly damaged and that the people inside will suffer serious injuries like spinal cord injuries, crushing injuries or traumatic brain injuries.
How can you stay safe around large trucks?
If you want to stay safe, the best bet is to stay out of the truck driver’s blind spots and to follow the traffic laws. Give the truck plenty of space, and report any driver who isn’t being safe.