100 Deadliest Days Of Driving Are Here, Warn Ohio Law Enforcement

The roughly 100 days between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend is sometimes called the "100 deadliest days of summer" by the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

While this stretch of days represents just 28 percent of a calendar year, the time period accounts for one-third of all fatal traffic crashes and deaths in Ohio, the Highway Patrol said. Last year, there were 360 people killed during this stretch of time.

“The safety of everyone using our roads is our primary concern,” said Colonel Richard S. Fambro, Patrol superintendent. “By driving sober and obeying the speed limit, we can make this a safe summer in Ohio.”

Many of the fatal crashes during last year's 100 deadliest days were related to speeding or driving impaired. The Highway Patrol said 37 percent of all 336 fatal crashes were related to impaired driving, and 28 percent were speed-related.

Franklin, Cuyahoga and Hamilton counties led the state in crashes last year during the 100 deadliest days.

• Franklin County had 9,552 crashes
• Cuyahoga County had 9,040 crashes
• Hamilton County had 8,288 crashes

The next closest county, in terms of crashes, was Summit with 4,057.

More than half of Ohio's yearly motorcycle crashes take place during the 100 deadliest days. Last year, 55 percent of motorcycle crashes occurred between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

“Drivers should make responsible choices behind the wheel every day of the year, but this is especially important during these dangerous summer months,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “Protect yourself and others on the road by committing to safe driving habits.”