OHIO — Summer in Ohio gives residents an excuse to drive with the windows down, but the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) is reminding drivers to monitor speed limit signs. 

OSHP said speeding is the leading cause of crashes, injuries and fatalities on the state’s roadways.


What You Need To Know

  • The patrol said drivers should remember that posted speed limits are not suggestions

  •  Between 2020 and 2024 Ohio had 146,983 crashes where a driver was speeding

  • By staying within the speed limit OSHP said drivers can contribute to safer roadways

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“Speed-related crashes are preventable, and slowing down could save your life or the life of a loved one,” said Gov. Mike DeWine, R-Ohio. “Speed limits are there for everyone’s safety, and I encourage all drivers to remain fully attentive to the road and adhere to posted speed limits.”

The Patrol said drivers should remember that posted speed limits are not suggestions and are set based on a variety of factors including road design, traffic volume and the surrounding environment.

“Speeding is a choice, and it’s a choice that can have devastating consequences,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “Every time you exceed the speed limit, you’re not just putting yourself at risk, you’re endangering everyone else on the road.”

Officers say by slowing down and following posted speed limits, drivers can:

  • Increase reaction time to hazards, pedestrians or unexpected road conditions

  • Reduce stopping distance as the faster the speed, the longer it takes for a vehicle to come to a complete stop

  • Minimize crash severity in the event of an accident

  • Help protect roadside workers and emergency responders

Between 2020 and 2024, there were 146,983 crashes in Ohio where a driver was traveling at an unsafe rate of speed. In the same time frame, OSHP statistics show a total of 1,713 speed-related fatal crashes, resulting in 1,890 deaths.

OSHP encourages the public to call #677 to report reckless or impaired drivers and drug activity.