At Paulozzi LPA, we closely monitor incidents that affect the safety of Ohio roads. A recent crash on Interstate 71 in Columbus has sparked conversation about driver behavior and liability. The video shows a red van coming to a complete stop in the middle lane of a busy highway after missing an exit. Within seconds, a chain-reaction crash unfolds behind the stopped vehicle, involving multiple cars. The van then merges into the exit lane and leaves the scene, seemingly unscathed. While thankfully there were no life-threatening injuries, the crash caused significant damage and underscores a critical safety message: never stop in a travel lane—especially on a high-speed interstate.
Highways are designed for continuous, predictable movement. When a vehicle abruptly stops in a travel lane, especially during rush hour, it becomes a hazard to everyone on the road. Stopping after missing an exit is among the most dangerous actions a driver can take. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 90% of traffic accidents are caused by human error, and reckless decisions—such as stopping on an interstate—are a leading contributor to crashes and fatalities.
In the Columbus incident, multiple vehicles were forced to brake suddenly. One driver, unable to stop in time, collided with the line of stopped cars. The red van that initiated the situation left the scene, raising not just safety concerns—but legal ones.
Liability in rear-end collisions and chain-reaction crashes can be complex, especially when the driver who caused the danger leaves the scene. In Ohio, liability is based on negligence—meaning the party who failed to act with reasonable care can be held responsible for the resulting damages. Under Ohio Revised Code § 4511.21, all drivers must maintain a safe speed and assure clear distance ahead to avoid collisions. However, this doesn’t automatically mean the rear driver is at fault. In cases where a vehicle comes to an unexpected stop—especially in a non-emergency situation—the driver who stopped may bear significant liability.
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This means that even if a rear driver failed to stop in time, the original negligent act—stopping on the interstate—can form the basis of a strong personal injury claim.
Missing an exit is frustrating—but never worth risking your life or others’. If you find yourself passing an off-ramp by mistake:
There are more than 5,500 ramps across Ohio. The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) reminds drivers that another exit is almost always just minutes away.
If you or a loved one is injured in a highway accident caused by another driver’s reckless behavior, Paulozzi LPA is here to help. Our team has extensive experience handling complex car accident cases, including multi-vehicle collisions and hit-and-run incidents. Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Even in cases where the responsible driver is unidentified, you may still have recourse through uninsured motorist coverage.
Accidents like the I-71 crash are preventable. By highlighting these real-life examples, we aim to educate the public and hold negligent drivers accountable. At Paulozzi LPA, we’re committed to helping victims of car accidents navigate the legal system with confidence and compassion. If you’ve been involved in a crash caused by another driver’s poor decision, let us advocate for your rights and pursue the justice you deserve. Contact Paulozzi LPA to schedule a free consultation or call us today.
