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Ohio drivers get their share of criticism. For goodness sake, even the Ohio Department of Transportation felt the need to gently remind those traveling on some major highways to "Live in the moment, not the left lane." But a more serious problem for Ohio drivers is that we are among 11 states in which there is a continued trend of speeding and dangerous driving that has lead to death and serious injuries.
According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, a July 26 Speed Awareness Day enforcement campaign is meant to address that trend here and in Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, and Wisconsin.
"Speed-related crashes can be deadly, but they are preventable," said Gov. Mike DeWine. "This campaign will help raise awareness on the dangers of speeding and save lives on Ohio's roadways."
In cooperation with law enforcement agencies across the state, there will be increased zero-tolerance enforcement and communication to road users on the importance of obeying the speed limit. The NHTSA says drivers who speed are also more likely to engage in other risky behaviors, such as not wearing a seat belt, drinking and driving, or using a cell phone while driving. (And, by the way, Ohio drivers would do well to read up on Ohio's Distracted Driving Law -- since April 4, it has been illegal to use or hold a cell phone or electronic device in your hand, lap, or other parts of the body while driving on Ohio roads. If an officer sees a violation, they can pull you over.)
"Speeding is a factor in far too many crashes and deaths on our roads," said Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Andy Wilson. That and other behaviors that become factors in such crashes can be avoided.
While July 26 might be a day to raise awareness, the bottom line is Ohio drivers should aim to be safe and responsible on the roads ALL the time.