Ohio Intersections

Every year, thousands of lives are forever changed on Ohio’s roads. In 2025 alone, several counties have already reported an alarming number of traffic fatalities and serious injuries. From busy urban streets to rural highways, specific locations across the state have earned a grim reputation for being especially dangerous.

This piece highlights Ohio’s 20 most dangerous traffic locations, based on state and federal crash data, and explains what makes each one so hazardous. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a truck driver, or a pedestrian, understanding these high-risk areas could help save a life.

Ohio Crash Trends at a Glance

Traffic fatalities in Ohio climbed steadily from 2020 to 2022, reaching more than 1,350 deaths in 2022, one of the highest totals in the Midwest.

High-speed interstate corridors, congested urban interchanges, and distracted driving are leading contributors to fatal crashes.

Despite its extensive highway system, Ohio’s urban centers like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati show the sharpest spikes in serious collisions. At the same time, rural two-lane roads still carry higher per-mile fatality risks.

Ohio’s Most Dangerous Intersections and Road Segments: Detailed Breakdown for 2025

1. Intersection of I-71 and I-270, Columbus

This busy interchange ranks among Ohio’s deadliest crash spots. Between 2018 and 2022, it was involved in 15 fatal crashes and over 320 injury collisions. The design funnels commuters and heavy truck traffic through complex ramp merges at high speeds, and frequent congestion makes rear-end and sideswipe crashes routine. Visibility drops during peak hours and storms, creating sudden blind spots that worsen the risks.

2. US Route 42 and Polaris Parkway, Columbus

Near the Polaris Fashion Place mall, this intersection combines high shopper traffic with daily commuter flows, which is dangerous. Between 2018 and 2022, it was involved in seven fatal and 140 injury crashes. Constant turning movements, heavy pedestrian crossings, and inconsistent signal timing make angle crashes and pedestrian incidents common. The commercial setting adds unpredictability, with vehicles darting in and out of parking lots.

3. I-75 at SR 129, Cincinnati

Where interstate speed collides with suburban arterials, trouble follows. The I-75/SR 129 interchange logged 12 fatal crashes and 280 injury crashes between 2018 and 2022. Ramp merges are confusing, and sudden slowdowns amplify the speed differential between local and highway traffic. Backups intensify during rush hours and weekend events, and lane-weaving leads to frequent collisions.

4. Cleveland’s E. 105th Street and Euclid Avenue

This urban intersection has long been a trouble spot. Between 2018 and 2022, it saw eight fatal crashes and nearly 190 injury crashes. Poor lighting and narrow lanes mix with heavy pedestrian traffic, creating a recipe for disaster. Crosswalks are poorly marked, left turns lack dedicated signals, and drivers often act aggressively to beat the lights. The area’s residential and commercial activity mix adds unpredictability that elevates risk.

5. I-70 and SR 315 interchange, Columbus

As a vital connection between Columbus and westbound traffic, the I-70/SR 315 interchange struggles with congestion. From 2018 to 2022, it experienced 10 fatal crashes and 260 injury crashes. Complex merging lanes, sudden braking, and frequent lane changes dominate the scene. With trucks and commuters competing for space, rear-end and sideswipe crashes are common, especially during the morning and evening rush.

6. US Route 20 and SR 615, Mentor

A suburban corridor filled with schools and shopping centers, US 20 at SR 615 is deceptively dangerous. Between 2018 and 2022, it logged six fatal and 120 injury crashes. Poor signage, frequent pedestrian crossings, and heavy turning traffic create numerous conflict points. Rear-end and angle collisions are prevalent during school hours, when traffic volumes spike.

7. I-71 at W. Spring Street exit, Columbus

Feeding directly into downtown Columbus, this exit ramp is notoriously tricky. From 2018 to 2022, it saw nine fatal crashes and 230 injury crashes. Short merge lanes and overwhelming traffic volumes lead to sudden stops, weaving, and rear-end collisions. Confusing signage leaves drivers scrambling, while nearby pedestrian crossings add another layer of risk.

8. State Route 4 and Central Avenue, Hamilton

Here, residential and commercial traffic collide in a problematic design. From 2018 to 2022, the intersection saw five fatal crashes and 110 injury crashes. Narrow turning lanes, poor signal timing, and heavy pedestrian activity create constant hazards. Truck traffic only worsens congestion, and limited visibility around corners means drivers and pedestrians are often caught off guard.

9. I-90 at SR 2 interchange, Cleveland

This interchange in Cleveland is a maze for many drivers, and the crash data proves it. Between 2018 and 2022, it saw seven fatal crashes and 210 injury crashes. Congestion builds quickly, signage is limited, and lane merges are confusing, leading to sideswipes and rear-end collisions. At night, inadequate lighting makes navigating the already complex layout even more challenging.

10. US Route 23 and SR 104, Columbus area

High-speed rural traffic meets urban commuters at the junction of US 23 and SR 104, creating a deadly mix. From 2018 to 2022, there were eight fatal crashes and 150 injury crashes here. Poor lighting, sharp curves, and limited shoulders reduce reaction times, while the mix of cars, trucks, and even farm equipment adds unpredictable dangers, especially at night or in bad weather.

11. I-275 at Hamilton Avenue, Cincinnati

This suburban interchange is a hotspot for crashes, logging six fatal crashes and 180 injury crashes from 2018 to 2022. Heavy truck traffic clogs the ramps, and poorly timed signals cause sudden backups. With limited visibility on curves and congestion during peak hours, sudden lane changes and collisions are frequent.

12. SR 315 and Dodridge Street, Columbus

Located near Ohio State University, this intersection blends heavy vehicle traffic with streams of pedestrians and cyclists. From 2018 to 2022, four fatal crashes and 100 injury crashes occurred here. Poor visibility, limited crosswalks, and fast-moving vehicles make the environment particularly dangerous for students on foot. The constant clash of cars and vulnerable road users makes this corridor one of the city’s riskiest.

13. I-71 at Worthington Road exit, Columbus

A short exit lane and high traffic volume make this spot treacherous. Between 2018 and 2022, it saw five fatal crashes and 140 injury crashes. Drivers face sudden slowdowns with little room to react, leading to frequent rear-end collisions. During rush hours, congestion and weaving create even more hazards.

14. US Route 50 and SR 125, Cincinnati

On Cincinnati’s east side, this suburban corridor has proven deadly. From 2018 to 2022, seven fatal crashes and 130 injury crashes were recorded. Commercial driveways and side streets create endless turning conflicts, while poor signal timing and impatient drivers lead to both angle and rear-end crashes.

15. Cleveland’s Carnegie Avenue and E. 93rd Street

Pedestrians face some of Cleveland’s worst crash risks at this intersection. Between 2018 and 2022, six fatal crashes and 140 injury crashes occurred here. Narrow lanes, poor crosswalk visibility, and aggressive driving create frequent pedestrian-vehicle collisions. The danger is amplified during evening hours when visibility is lowest.

16. I-70 near Springfield

This stretch of I-70 shows how rural highways can be deceptively deadly. From 2018 to 2022, eight fatal crashes and 210 injury crashes occurred here. High speeds, sudden curves, and poorly lit merge areas leave little margin for error. Loss-of-control crashes are common, particularly at night and during adverse weather.

17. US Route 42 and SR 161, Columbus area

Heavy truck traffic and confusing intersections make for a dangerous mix in this commercial corridor. Between 2018 and 2022, six fatal crashes and 115 injury crashes happened here. Inadequate signage leaves drivers guessing, often resulting in angle crashes. The risks are constant with both commuters and freight traffic competing for space.

18. SR 14 and SR 11 interchange, Youngstown

A complex design makes this Youngstown interchange a perennial crash site. From 2018 to 2022, it recorded five fatal crashes and 100 injury crashes. Short merge lanes, poor lighting, and frequent congestion produce a steady stream of rear-end and sideswipe collisions.

19. I-480 at Broadway Avenue, Cleveland

This busy urban interchange logged seven fatal crashes and 190 injury crashes from 2018 to 2022. High commuter volumes, confusing lane markings, and peak-hour congestion create a perfect storm for collisions. Lane discipline breaks down during rush hours, and rear-end crashes are especially common.

20. SR 315 and Lane Avenue, Columbus

Right next to Ohio State University, this intersection is a daily gauntlet for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Between 2018 and 2022, four fatal and 90 injury crashes occurred here. Limited crossing points, speeding drivers, and crowded lanes make it one of Columbus’s most hazardous urban corridors.

Common Causes of Traffic Accidents in Ohio

Understanding what leads to crashes is the first step toward safer roads. In Ohio, the most frequent causes of accidents include:

• Driver Behavior
  
  • Speeding remains a top factor, especially on highways and rural roads. Higher speeds mean less time to react and more severe crashes.
  • Distracted driving, such as texting, eating, or fiddling with the radio, takes attention away from the road. As a result, distracted driving crashes have been increasing steadily.
• Impaired Driving
  
  • Despite strict laws and awareness campaigns, alcohol and drug-impaired driving causes nearly one-third of traffic deaths in Ohio.
• Poor Road Conditions and Visibility
  
  • Weather conditions like rain, snow, and fog make roads slippery and reduce visibility.
  • Some dangerous locations have poor lighting and faded lane markings, making it difficult for drivers to see clearly.
• Intersection Design and Traffic Signals
  
  • Confusing or poorly timed signals at busy intersections can lead to frustration and risky moves such as running red lights or sudden lane changes.
• Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety
  
  • Urban areas like Columbus and Cleveland see many pedestrian accidents. Poorly marked crosswalks and drivers failing to yield contribute to these crashes.

Tackling these issues requires better infrastructure, stricter law enforcement, and responsible behavior from all road users. Every small action behind the wheel can help prevent the next accident.

Staying Safe on Ohio’s Roads Starts with Awareness and Action

Traffic accidents don’t just happen by chance; they are often the result of predictable risks and common mistakes. By understanding Ohio’s most dangerous locations and the causes behind crashes, drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians can make smarter decisions to protect themselves and others.

If you or a loved one is ever injured in a collision on Ohio’s roads, Local Accident Reports is here to help. We connect you with trusted Ohio personal injury attorneys, obtain your official accident reports, and guide you step-by-step through the recovery and legal process. Don’t face the aftermath alone.

Call Local Accident Reports now at 1 (888) 657 1460 for immediate support and a free consultation. Prompt action is crucial to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Stay informed, stay alert, and drive safely.