Men Caused Most Fatal Car Crashes In Ohio In 2019

CLEVELAND — Men caused nearly 75 percent of fatal car crashes in Ohio in 2019, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. More than 1,100 people were killed in traffic accidents last year across the state, the Patrol said.

The Highway Patrol said there are five main factors which contributed to the majority of fatal crashes in 2019: driving at unsafe speeds, failing to yield, tailgating, drifting left of center and driving off the road. Men were more likely to speed than women, the Highway Patrol said, making them more likely to contribute to fatal crashes.

“Crashes are preventable when drivers stay focused and make good decisions behind the wheel,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “Driving aware not only helps you stay safe, but it helps other motorists get home to their families as well.”

Teenagers were more likely to cause fatal crashes than mature drivers, the Highway Patrol found. Young drivers were more likely to speed and drift out of their lane. While women were less likely to cause fatal crashes, they were more likely to ignore yield signs.

Last year was the second deadliest traffic year in Ohio in 10 years. Provisional Highway Patrol data says 1,157 people died in car crashes throughout the state. Officials have said an uptick in distracted driving — mainly cell phone use — led to more fatal crashes.

“Law enforcement officers see the deadly consequences of distracted driving violations on a daily basis, and more often than not, these distractions involve the use of an electronic device,” said Lt. Rob Gable, Cleveland commander. "Distracted driving is unsafe and irresponsible, and in a split second, the consequences can be devastating.”

DeWine has proposed a statewide law cracking down on cell phone use while driving. The legislation would make would make texting while driving a primary offense, meaning police could stop drivers for the offense. The bill would also increase the penalties for using a cell phone while driving.

"The use of wireless devices while driving has become so common that many drivers don't stop to consider the deadly consequences," said DeWine. "Although Ohio's current laws are well-intended, they simply haven't gone far enough to change the culture around using technology behind the wheel. By strengthening Ohio's laws, we believe we can change behaviors, prevent crashes, and save lives."