From OHIO STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) wants everyone traveling on the road to be prepared for the unpredictability of winter weather. Drivers must prioritize safety and preparation to ensure their vehicles are fully winterized before they hit the road.
Last winter, 2024-25, there were 15,647 crashes on snow, ice, and slush-covered roads in Ohio. That is nearly twice as many as the previous winter’s total, and the highest amount over the last five years. Of the crashes recorded during last winter, 17 were fatals. Eight of those fatal crashes occurred in January.
“Good driving habits become even more important when the weather is bad,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, patrol superintendent. “The message is simple: slow down, use extreme caution, and keep extra space between you and the vehicle ahead.”
Many winter crashes are avoidable. According to patrol statistics, unsafe speed by the at-fault driver was listed as the cause of 22% of crashes on snow, ice, or slush-covered roads. Other crash causes include driving off the road and following too closely.
In the event of a broken-down vehicle or crash, turn on hazard lights, safely move the vehicle as far off the roadway as possible, remain inside the vehicle, and call #677 or 911 for assistance. If a vehicle becomes stuck in the snow, clear the tailpipe of any possible debris to decrease the chance of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Drivers are reminded to stock their vehicles with a winter car kit that includes an ice scraper, shovel, jumper cables, flashlight, warning devices, blankets, cell phone charger, first aid kit, water, and food. It’s also important to make sure that tires have plenty of tread, check the battery, and keep the windshield washer reservoir full.
If people must travel in winter weather, they are encouraged to visit https://www.ohgo.com/ for real-time traffic conditions from the Ohio Department of Transportation.
