Traffic Fatalities Up In Ohio In 2019

CLEVELAND — Even with two weeks left in 2019, new data suggests the past 12 months have been some of the deadliest months for Ohio drivers. More than 1,100 people were killed in traffic crashes in the Buckeye State this year.

In 2018, 1,068 people died in traffic crashes in Ohio. In 2019, that number jumped to 1,119. The number of traffic deaths could jump even higher with two of the busiest travel weeks of the year approaching.

The increase in fatalities is part of an ongoing trend. Traffic deaths have increased five of the past six years, according to Ohio State Highway Patrol data.

Governor Mike DeWine ascribes part of the blame to smartphone use.

“Distracted driving involving smartphones is, without a doubt, a major contributing factor to this increase in traffic fatalities, which is why I’ve asked the Ohio State Highway Patrol to increase enforcement of distracted driving violations over the holidays,” said DeWine. “As we launch into one of the busiest travel times of the year, the way we drive will impact how many people are home for the holidays and how many people ring in the new year.”

The Ohio State Highway Patrol said their focus will be on deterring distracted driving for the rest of the month. The patrol's data suggests a lot of crashes could have been avoided if drivers had been paying attention to the road.

Between 2013 and today, there have been 91,000 distracted driving car crashes in Ohio. Because of those crashes, there were 47,000 injuries and 305 deaths. The patrol believes the number of distracted driving crashes could be even higher, but drivers frequently lie about using their smartphone before an accident.

“I’m challenging everyone to put your smartphones away while you drive over the holidays and to make it your New Year’s resolution to drive without distraction every day going forward,” said DeWine. “If you have a passenger, ask them to read or write texts for you, or if you are the passenger, speak up if you see your driver reaching for the phone.”

The crackdown on distracted driving will be hampered by the law. Texting while driving is a secondary offense for drivers over 18, meaning you cannot be pulled over simply for using your phone while on the road.

However, teenage drivers, under 18, can be pulled over for using their smartphones while driving.

In Northeast Ohio, the Highway Patrol said they would be taking part in a two-week crackdown on distracted driving. Troopers will also be speaking in schools and organizations throughout the region on the dangers of distracted driving.

“Education, along with traffic enforcement, will aid in our goal of keeping the public focused on driving when behind the wheel,” said Lt. Robert Gable, Cleveland Post Commander.

ODOT will also be using its messaging boards to promote safe, aware driving during the holiday season.