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Year-to-Date Confirmed Fatalities, Current vs 2025 Fatalities
 FATAL CRASHES 2026 MAP can be found here.
OSTATS CRASH DASHBOARD can be found here.
 Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jim Tressel announced the launch of a new seatbelt campaign video reminding Ohioans about the importance of buckling up.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), seatbelts have saved over 375,000 lives since 1975. Lt. Governor Tressel illustrates this statistic at The Ohio State University in Columbus, explaining that the number of people saved by seatbelts could fill up Ohio Stadium four times. The campaign uses photos of fathers, mothers, children, and friends in each seat of the stadium to demonstrate that each life matters.
“Wearing a seatbelt every time you get in the car isn't just about protecting yourself; it's about protecting your loved ones,” said Governor DeWine. “Too many families in Ohio have been forever changed by crashes involving those not wearing seatbelts. This campaign reminds Ohioans that buckling up improves your chances of making it back to your loved ones at the end of the day.”
"Every seat in Ohio Stadium represents a life that matters — someone's parent, child, teammate, or friend," said Lt. Governor Tressel. "Wearing a seatbelt every time you get in the car is one of the most important things you can do. It can make the difference between getting home safely and a loss that changes a family forever."
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CLICK HERE to see the new video "Buckle Up, Every Time"
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The new traffic safety campaign video is a follow-up to Lt. Governor Tressel’s "Hard Hitter" campaign, which used football imagery to illustrate the physical impact of an unbuckled vehicle occupant on another passenger during a traffic accident. A crash at speeds of 50 miles per hour has the potential to hurl an unrestrained occupant with eight times the force of a 240-pound linebacker running at full speed.
The media campaign was produced in partnership between the Ohio Department of Transportation and the Ohio Department of Public Safety.
For more information, visit www.buckleup.ohio.gov.
In Case You Missed It: Traffic Fatalities Decrease for Fourth Consecutive Year
Governor DeWine, Ohio State Highway Patrol Superintendent Col. Charles Jones, and Ohio Department of Transportation Director Pamela Boratyn announced that traffic fatalities have decreased in Ohio for the fourth consecutive year.
According to preliminary data from the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP), the number of traffic fatalities in 2025 dropped approximately 3% in Ohio as compared to 2024, a difference of 32 lives. This decrease continues the downward trend in traffic fatalities that began in 2022, representing 231 lives saved across four years.
"The fact that more people have made it home to their families the past four years is certainly worth celebrating but make no mistake -- the number of people killed on Ohio's roads remains far too high," said Governor DeWine. "Everyone has a role in making our roads safer, and we all have more work to do."
 According to the Ohio Traffic Safety Office (OTSO), inexperience is the top reason why new drivers crash. Governor DeWine pushed for stronger driver training laws in Ohio, leading to a new requirement that all drivers aged 16 to 20 receive driver training before they can test for a driver's license. Governor DeWine also launched OTSO's Drive to Succeed scholarship program in 2022 to support teenage drivers whose families cannot otherwise afford the cost of a driving school. To date, more than 6,000 students have received scholarships to cover the fees for the training required to get a license.
“When teens learn safe driving skills early, those habits become second nature,” said Emily Davidson, director of OTSO. “These behaviors don’t just help them pass a driving test – they set the foundation for a lifetime of responsible driving. Programs like Drive to Succeed ensure that every young driver has the tools to make smart choices behind the wheel, which ultimately saves lives.”
 Ohioans who wish to learn what it takes to ride a motorcycle safely and responsibly can sign up online for rider courses beginning Monday, Jan. 26 at 8 a.m. Last year, Motorcycle Ohio, the state’s motorcycle safety and education program, trained 12,237 students. Courses at 51 training sites in 36 counties begin as early as March and run through mid-November. Education for riders is one of the keys to making our roadways safer for all motorists.
- Since 2020, 1,263 motorcyclists have been killed in crashes on Ohio’s roadways.
- An average of 77% of motorcycle fatalities involved riders who were untrained.
Any person operating a motorcycle on public roadways in Ohio must hold a valid motorcycle permit, motorcycle-only license, or endorsement. The Motorcycle Ohio program, offered by the Ohio Department of Public Safety, makes it easy for riders to get their endorsement by issuing a 60-day BMV skill test waiver upon successful completion of any course.
Enrollment for Motorcycle Ohio courses is just $75, and there are three different levels of safety courses for riders based on their skill levels and objectives. The types of courses include:
- Basic Rider Skills (BRS): recommended for novice riders. During this 16-hour course, students will participate in four hours of classroom training and 12 hours of on-cycle training covering topics such as cornering, braking, swerving, and traffic interaction. No experience is required, and Motorcycle Ohio provides the motorcycles and helmets.
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New this year: riders enrolled in the BRS course will now have the option to complete their four hours of classroom training online. Motorcycle Ohio has partnered with the eRider program for students at a limited number of training sites. This highly interactive online classroom is designed to prepare students before they begin on-cycle training. Full rollout of online eRider training is expected in May 2026.
- Returning Riders (BRS-RR): recommended for intermediate riders. This eight-hour course is designed for riders 18 and older who have been riding with a two-wheel temporary permit for more than one year or a two-wheeled experienced rider returning after an extended time away. Students will participate in two hours of classroom instruction, take an on-cycle evaluation to assess their skill level, and then complete six hours of on-cycle training.
- Basic Rider Skills 2 (BRS-2): recommended for riders looking for a refresher course or to bond with a new motorcycle. During this seven-hour course, students will participate in on-cycle training without a formal classroom setting while using their own street legal two-wheeled motorcycle.
Students must have a valid motorcycle temporary permit (TIPIC) before the first riding session, which can be obtained from the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) by passing the motorcycle knowledge test. Those over 18 years old and already have an active Ohio Class D driver’s license or CDL can take the knowledge test online through the BMV’s online services.
To find out more about how to prepare for a Motorcycle Ohio course and enroll, please visit motorcycle.ohio.gov.
NEW MATERIALS to Promote Motorcycle Rider Training in 2026
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COMING SOON: Item # OTS 0068 Motorcycle Ohio Get Trained Poster
This new 11"x18" poster features a testimonial from Doug Wright, a seasoned Ohio rider who has taken multiple Motorcycle Ohio training courses over the years to keep his riding skills sharp.
The poster also features a map of the current 51 training sites in 36 Counties across Ohio and a QR code which directs to the Motorcycle Ohio website.
Order posters to spread the word in your community from the Motorcycle Ohio online materials order form or on OTSO's order form.
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The Ohio Traffic Safety Office (OTSO), a division of The Ohio Department of Public Safety which oversees driver training, is proud to mark the 25th anniversary of the student driver sign. This simple yet powerful tool has helped make Ohio roads safer for teens and families. This milestone honors the vision and determination of Jonna Saul-Anderson, a mother from Hilliard, Ohio, whose advocacy led to a state law change in 2004 allowing student driver signs to be displayed in vehicle windows.
What began as a mother’s effort in 2001 to protect her daughter, Jessica, during the required 50 hours of supervised driving became a statewide movement. “I designed the first signs myself and put them in our car windows,” Saul-Anderson recalls. “When I learned they were illegal, I thought, ‘That needs to change.’ It took three years, testimony at the Statehouse, and a lot of persistence – but we did it.”
On January 7, 2004, Governor Bob Taft signed the bill into law – on Jessica Anderson’s birthday. “That was icing on the cake,” Saul-Anderson says. “It taught her how government works and how one voice can make a difference.”
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Since then, Ohio has made significant progress in supporting teen drivers and their families:
- Ohio’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system was revised in 2007 to enhance protections and requirements for young drivers, giving them a safer, phased approach to full licensure.
- Online classroom training options have been launched, making driver education more accessible and affordable.
- Under the leadership of Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, OTSO’s Drive to Succeed Scholarship Program was introduced in 2022 and has awarded more than 6,200 scholarships to help low-income families afford driver training.
- In 2025, the Teach Your Teen to Drive Campaign and website was refreshed, and the Governor announced the new RoadReady Ohio app with features to log practice hours, get feedback on driving skills and sync with BMV records.
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Driver education requirements were expanded in 2025 for all first-time drivers under age 21.
“Our approach has evolved dramatically since the early 2000s,” said OTSO Director Emily Davidson. “Parents are the first and most influential driving teachers their teens will ever have. That’s why we invested in resources like TeachYourTeentoDrive.ohio.gov and the RoadReady Ohio app – to make the process easier and safer.”
“The signs are about visibility and safety,” Saul-Anderson says. “They tell other drivers, ‘This person is learning – give them space.’ That protects the teen, the parent, and the community.”
Today, student driver signs are widely accepted and available at any BMV location when a temporary permit is issued or given upon request. “Seeing them on cars still makes me smile,” Saul-Anderson adds. “If you see something that needs to change, don’t be afraid to try. One idea can make a big difference.”
Emily Davidson, Director of OTSO reflects: “This anniversary is a reminder of how far we’ve come. Jonna’s advocacy sparked a movement that continues to raise awareness and save lives. Our goal remains the same: empower families and teens to make safe choices behind the wheel.”
For resources to help parents and teens navigate the learning-to-drive process, visit TeachYourTeenToDrive.ohio.gov or download the RoadReady Ohio app.
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OTSO is seeking nominees for the 2nd annual Traffic Safety Awards which will be presented at our annual Summit in May. Nominate an individual or a department by end of day on Thursday, January 29.
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Traffic Safety Service Award: This award is presented to an Ohio law enforcement officer or department who goes above and beyond to keep road users and their communities safe through innovative enforcement and education.
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Traffic Safety Leadership Award: This award recognizes exceptional efforts to increase traffic safety awareness by building partnerships, and motivating and influencing their peers.
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2025 Ohio Traffic Safety Award Winners:
- Service Award: Officer Matthew Schaub, Green Township Police Dept.
- Leadership Award: Anna Piper, Columbus Public Health & Franklin County Safe Communities Coalition
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 Become a Shifting Gears Presenter!
Presenters for "Shifting Gears" first must be trained by a representative from SADD. Trainings take about 2.5 hours and are conducted in-person. After attending a training, presenters will get access to the curriculum materials and immediately be able to bring Shifting Gears to high school students.
- January 21, 2026 - Bowling Green - 10am
- February 4, 2026 - Columbus - 10am (backup date Feb. 18)
- April 1, 2026 - Cincinnati - 10am
- April 20, 2026 - Columbus - AM & PM sessions available
Training is FREE, but advance registration is required. Visit OTSO's Shifting Gears webpage to find the registration link.
   
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  Super Bowl Buzzed Driving Prevention Material
- February 3-8, 2026: Super Bowl Campaign
- February 8: Super Bowl
Super Bowl parties are some of the most attended gatherings among friends and family, so keeping safety in mind is essential. NHTSA offers themed material that encourages people to plan ahead and designate a sober driver before the game starts. And, if someone is hosting a party, take care of guests. The message is simple: Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk.
Free assets are available in English and Spanish: Talking Points, Sample News Release, Social Media, Graphics and Posters.
Get Material Now
On behalf of the NHTSA team, thanks for your proactive support in saving lives on our highways.
While Ohio may not have any teams on the road to the Super Bowl this season, we're still showing team spirit in the fight against impaired driving. OTSO is leveraging its partnership with the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns to support your outreach efforts.
Branded posters featuring the teams' marks and logos are perfect for local engagement and can help tie your messaging to the big game.
Posters are available for free on our OTSO's Safety Materials Order Form
- OTS0118 Bengals Drive Sober Poster
- OTS0119 Browns Drive Sober Poster
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Grants Available for Motorcycle Safety Projects |
The National Motorcycle Safety Fund (MSF) is accepting applications for $5,000 grants now through March 31 from individuals and organizations with projects that could enhance the safety of motorcyclists. Proposals can be for projects supporting specific safe-riding initiatives, projects that would help foster a safer riding environment, or for motorcycle safety-related research efforts.
Read more at nmsfund.org.
 NSA Winter Conference
- National Sheriffs' Association
- Washington, D.C.
- January 31 - February 4, 2026
- Join high-level leadership from federal agencies, members of Congress, and very active sheriffs who come together to explore current legislation, learn about relevant topics, and explore trending technologies and products.
- Register by January 16 to be sure you receive your meal tickets, registration after that is not guaranteed.
- https://nsawinter.org/
2026 Winter Conference & Trade Show
- Ohio Township Association
- Columbus, OH
- February 4-6, 2026
- This year’s theme, “Get Involved. Get Inspired. Get Festive.” captures the energy and enthusiasm that defines Ohio’s township leaders. Registration is open now for more than 100 educational workshops, dynamic speakers, numerous networking events, and one of the largest trade shows in the midwest for local governments.
- 2026 Winter Conference Pre-Registration - Ohio Township Association
Lifesavers Conference on Roadway Safety
- Baltimore, MD
- April 19-21, 2026
- The Lifesavers Conference brings together professionals from federal, state, and local government; law enforcement; emergency services; public health; advocacy; injury prevention; and non-profit organizations to share ideas, strategies, and programs aimed at reducing preventable injuries and saving lives.
- Early Bird registration open until Feb. 18, 2026
- Home - Lifesavers Conference on Roadway Safety
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Free Upcoming Virtual Trainings with National Safety Council:
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Wednesday, January 21st - Our Driving Concern: Transportation Safety Training for the Workplace
Description: Motor vehicle crashes involving employees are devastating on a personal level. They also cause a significant financial burden on employers. Approximately half of all crash-related injuries result in employees missing time from work. This can lead to increased costs in health insurance, workers’ compensation, liability claims, and lost productivity. The Our Driving Concern training is a comprehensive, free training course that enables employers to reduce driving risks by helping them to build a culture of safe driving.
Thursday, February 12th - Keeping Employees Safe - Reasonable Suspicion Training & DOT Clearinghouse Insights
Description: Keeping your employees safe starts with recognizing the signs of impairment. That’s why reasonable suspicion training is essential to any strong drug-free workplace program. In this webinar, Drug Recognition Expert Jorge Leal shares the most common mistakes employers make in workplace drug and alcohol testing – and he discusses how to avoid them. You’ll also gain valuable insights into the DOT Clearinghouse and what every employer needs to know to stay compliant and protect their workforce.
JANUARY 2026 TRAFFIC TUESDAY WEBINAR
Title: Advanced Trial Testimony: The Science of Deciding a DUI (Ohio Bar Approval for 1.5-hr CLE General Credit)
Date: Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Time: 2:00p-3:30p Eastern
Presenter: Ed Hirsch - Montana TSRP
Description: Human behavioral scientists have spent considerable time studying how humans make decisions. This training delves into how we make decisions, what triggers those decisions, and the ethically appropriate approaches law enforcement and prosecutors can make to put their best foot forward in the courtroom. While these skills are applicable to all testimony, this training emphasizes their application during DUI testimony.
CLICK HERE for more information and the registration link.
Drug Recognition Expert Program
The Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) Program is a traffic safety program that focuses on the detection, apprehension and adjudication of drug-impaired drivers.
A DRE is a law enforcement officer highly trained to recognize impairment in drivers under the influence of drugs other than, or in addition to alcohol.
2026 DRE School Training Dates:
- March 30 - April 10, 2026 at OSHP Academy
- Field Certifications: April 19 - 25, 2026
For more information and how to apply for this free training, please view the DRE Application, School Information and Requirements by clicking here.
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Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE) provides officers with general knowledge related to drug impaired driving and to promote the use of Drug Recognition Experts (DRE). Officers attending this course will receive an update/refresher of Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (SFSTs) and must successfully pass an SFST proficiency evaluation. This training also promotes interaction with representatives from the state's prosecution community who are encouraged to attend. The instructors for this course are all Ohio DRE certified instructors.
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Prerequisite: Law enforcement officers must have had training in SFST (previously ADAP). This course is funded through an OTSO/NHTSA grant and is free for sworn Ohio law enforcement officers and prosecutors only. Tuition for out-of-state officers is $250.
- Check back soon for ARIDE course opportunities in 2026.
 
U.S. roadway deaths are steadily declining, but they are still elevated compared to pre-pandemic levels. Reckless and risky driving behaviors remain a major problem. Violations like speeding, aggressive driving, and road rage have surged. Claims data shows a 17% increase in overall driving violations in 2025, including a 50% jump in distracted driving violations from 2023 to 2024.
Just telling people to drive safely isn’t enough. We need to do more. We can do more! Passengers can play a more active role in their own safety and that of others.
That is why We Save Lives and the National Road Safety Foundation launched The National Passenger Safety Campaign, bringing together 60 other organizations that believe that it’s time to focus on the passenger, and not just the driver. The goal is to promote safe driving practices and prevent unsafe ones by empowering passengers to SPEAK UP when their lives are in danger due to a reckless driver.
In 2023, the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) added the campaign to their national calendar. National Passenger Safety Week is now an ongoing event, the last week in January of every year.
Passengers can make a difference.
One courageous voice can change a deadly choice!
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Statistics show that in 2023:
- 24% of vehicle occupant fatalities were passengers
- Nearly 50% of vehicle occupants killed were not wearing a seat belt
- 62% of teen passenger deaths occurred in vehicles driven by another teenager
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Ohio Passenger Safety Statistics:
- Since 2021, 998 passengers have been killed in traffic crashes in Ohio
- 60% of passenger fatalities were unbelted
- 32% of all passenger fatalities are under the age of 24
- 70% of passengers under age 24 who were killed were unbelted
The National Passenger Safety Week website has a number of resources, including social media graphics, a Courage to Intervene Promise that passengers can sign, tools for parents and teens, and much more.
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NEW MATERIALS from OTSO to Promote Passenger Safety in 2026
- Item # 414289 Seat Belt Pledge Card
This new handout aligns with Ohio's "Hard Hitter" seatbelt campaign which was introduced in July 2025. The campaign uses football imagery to illustrate the physical impact of an unbuckled vehicle occupant on another passenger during a crash.
The card encourages your community to take the pledge to buckle up to protect others and includes a tear-off portion for them to sign as part of an engagement activity. Cards are shipped in packages of 50 and are available now to order on OTSO's online safety materials order form.
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OTSO offers materials for numerous traffic safety campaigns, including impaired driving, restraint usage, distracted driving, speeding and motorcycles. Utilizing these free materials can make an impact that can reach beyond your community.
CLICK HERE to order online!
Outdated forms sent via fax or e-mail will still be accepted, but this online link will be updated when new materials are added to our inventory. More items coming soon!
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Fast Facts Crash Bulletins
"Fast Facts" is an educational tool to help inform drivers about crash data and trends at the local level. Each county-specific bulletin includes the latest crash statistics, timely safety talking points, and stories of real crashes.
All 88 bulletins are available publicly for driving instructors, Safe Communities, employers, and law enforcement to use for presentations and to display at events. Parents of teen drivers may also find them useful for the required 50 hours of in-car practice.
OTSO extends its thanks to the Ohio State Highway Patrol for their collaboration on the Fast Facts bulletins.
CLICK HERE to download the "Fast Facts" bulletin for your County!
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