A crash on Interstate 80 heading in the east bound near Bailey Road lane tied up traffic Monday morning, however the Ohio State Highway Patrol says accidents like these can be avoided if drivers follow the rules of the road. The truck driver in that crash was cited for failure to assured clear distance which is a misdemeanor.


Sergeant Michael Wilson said, " One common mistake is following too closely or not paying attention. Assured clear distance is not allowing yourself enough room to stop and striking the vehicle in front of you, or trying to avoid the vehicle in front of you by swerving. The citation is issued after an accident since there is evidence such as damaged vehicles."


OSP emphasizes the State Patrol enforces the conditions no matter the road or weather conditions. Wilson said, "This means if roads are bad drivers need to driver slower so they can safely stop to avoid hitting the vehicle in front of them no matter why that vehicle stops.


The rule of thumb is one car length for every ten miles an hour, that would go for both highway and regular driving in the city semi-trucks weigh more and take longer to stop so there should be a greater stopping distance."


The Highway Patrol and police also actively patrol and issue citations for following too close. If officers see this violation they can and will pull drivers over. OSP emphasizes preventing accidents can help save injuries to drivers and help save lives