Ohio Rest Stop Closures and Impaired Drivers are a Dangerous Combo
When you’re driving late at night and fatigue sets in, a rest stop can be the difference between arriving home safely and causing a devastating accident. Rest areas closed for demolition and replacement with new facilities, leaving tired drivers with fewer safe places to pull over and rest. This creates a dangerous situation—especially when impaired drivers are on the road.
Why Closed Rest Stops Increase Accident Risk
The Lake County rest areas serve as the last stop for eastbound motorists traveling on I-90 in Ohio. When fatigued drivers can’t find a place to rest, they’re more likely to continue driving in an unsafe condition. Drowsy driving impairs judgment and reaction time, similar to drunk driving.
While the new lodge-style facilities will eventually offer expanded amenities and tourism information, construction won’t be completed for about a year. That means drivers must travel significant distances to find alternative rest areas, increasing their time on the road while fatigued.
An Increased Risk of Drunk Drivers
Ohio sees thousands of drunk driving accidents every year. When you combine exhausted drivers with intoxicated motorists, the risk of serious accidents multiplies.
When a drunk driver causes an accident, the consequences can be catastrophic—severe injuries, permanent disabilities, or death. If you’ve been hit by an impaired driver, you have legal rights. The drunk driver’s negligence makes them liable for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
How to Stay Vigilant on Ohio’s Roads
With fewer rest stops available, plan your route carefully and identify alternative places to stop if needed. Watch for signs of impaired drivers—swerving between lanes, inconsistent speeds, or delayed reactions at traffic signals. If you spot a potentially drunk driver, maintain a safe distance and contact law enforcement. Never attempt to pass an erratic driver in an unsafe manner. If you feel drowsy, find a safe place to pull over immediately, even if it means exiting the highway.
Get the Compensation You Deserve
Impaired drivers need to be held accountable. Their reckless decision to get behind the wheel endangered everyone on the road, including you. Don’t let their insurance company minimize your claim or pressure you into a quick settlement.
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your drunk driving accident claim. When a drunk or impaired driver injures you, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (877) 614-9524 so that I can evaluate your case right away.
