Risk For Accidents Increases As School Resumes In Ohio

OHIO — With students heading back to school, traffic is likely to increase throughout Ohio. That will mean a higher chance of accidents in neighborhoods and school zones, according to travel organization AAA.

“Be ready for extra traffic in the coming weeks,” said Kellie O’Riordan, traffic safety program manager for AAA Ohio Auto Club. “It’s important to plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time, so you are not rushing through neighborhoods and school zones.”

Between 2009 and 2018, pedestrian deaths jumped 55 percent nationally and 49 percent in Ohio, according to research by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Last year, in Ohio, 166 pedestrians died in traffic accidents, the Ohio Department of Transportation said. That's nearly 20 percent higher than the five-year average.

Between 2016 and 2020, there 4,568 crashes in Ohio involving pedestrians 18 or younger. That's approximately 914 accidents per year. In 2020, 32 people 18 or younger died in pedestrian-car accidents, according to ODOT.

Crashes tend to spike in the morning and afternoon, particularly around 3 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays prove the most dangerous, AAA said.

With danger increasing, how should drivers adjust? Here are tips from AAA:

• Slow down — During the pandemic, speeding increased in Ohio and across the nation. Reducing your speed even 10 mph can save a life, AAA said.
• Eliminate distractions — Kids can suddenly dash into the road, so drivers need to remain alert at all times. Stay off your cell phone and avoid fiddling with the radio while driving.
• Obey all school zone signs — Ignoring these safety markers could lead to expensive traffic citations or deadly consequences.
• Plan ahead — Anticipate slowed traffic in school zones and adjust your commute plan accordingly.
• Buckle up — Wearing a seat belt can protect you and your loved ones in the event of an accident.
• Look for crossing guards and school safety patrollers — These volunteers are there to protect children and keep roads safe for pedestrians.