Most Dangerous Roads & Intersections in Akron & Stow: How Minor Traffic Infractions Lead to OVI Charges
Some of the most dangerous roads & intersections in Akron & Stow lead to more than just traffic tickets. Minor infractions and even minor crashes often result in operating a vehicle impaired (OVI) charges as officers investigate the scene. Understanding how Stow and Akron OVI cases happen and what your defense strategies are is crucial. The Akron OVI lawyers at DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder can explain what to do next if you are in a similar situation.
Where Do Minor Traffic Infractions Happen in Akron & Stow?
In Akron and Stow, traffic tickets can happen anywhere. However, there are certain areas where complex intersections, heavy traffic, or other factors increase the risk of driver errors. Some of the most common include:
- State Route 59. In Stow, State Route 59 has some of the highest crash rates, especially between Darrow Road and Fishcreek Road. Many drivers drive recklessly along this route, whether due to speeding, failing to stay attentive during the sharp curves, or making dangerous passes.
- South Maple Street and West Cedar Street. Traffic infractions are common at this intersection in Akron because drivers are often confused by the street layout, particularly as Cedar St. is a one-way road at this intersection. There are also crashes and infractions due to speeding, which prompted the installation of speed bumps on S. Maple St.
- North Main Street. In Akron, N. Main St. is particularly dangerous between Olive St. and E. Tallmadge Ave. This stretch of N. Main St. sees 14.58 crashes per mile per year. In this area, rampant speeding, the lack of turning lanes, and the lack of pedestrian infrastructure contribute to the risk of poor driving decisions.
- Hudson Drive and Steels Corners Road. This is one of Stow’s most notorious intersections. The risk of an infraction or a car accident is high because of the large volume of traffic, which often includes commercial vehicles due to the proximity to Route 8. Drivers also commonly speed or drive while distracted.
Many drivers are cited in these areas for minor infractions, such as speeding, reckless driving, or failing to signal a turn. However, these intersections and roads are also where many of Ohio’s car accidents occur. In 2025, Ohio recorded 264,534 total crashes.
Why Minor Incidents Can Lead to OVI Charges
Minor incidents, such as speeding or a minor fender bender, give the police a valid reason to conduct a traffic stop. Once they approach your vehicle and speak with you about the infraction, they may also notice clues of an OVI, such as your appearance or the odor of alcohol. Because the officer initially conducted the traffic stop for a valid reason, they can charge you with an OVI or another offense under Akron and Stow OVI laws.
While the legal limit in Ohio is a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08%, you can be convicted of an OVI if your BAC is under this limit, so long as alcohol or drugs were impairing your driving abilities. Police may use small driving errors, such as those you were cited for, as evidence that your driving is impaired.
What to Do After Being Arrested for an OVI
If a traffic stop for a minor infraction does turn into an Akron OVI case, there are several steps you should take to protect your rights and improve your defense against these charges. Some of these steps are:
- Hire an OVI lawyer as soon as possible.
- Avoid discussing the offense with law enforcement until speaking with your lawyer.
- Comply with chemical testing after your arrest.
- Avoid posting about the case on social media.
- Work with a lawyer to appeal the automatic license suspension.
Why You Should Hire an OVI Lawyer From DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder
At DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder, our Akron criminal defense lawyers have over 50 years of combined legal experience. We know how overwhelming it can be when a simple traffic violation turns into criminal OVI charges. We can defend your rights, explain your options, and create a legal strategy that pushes for a favorable outcome.
FAQs
Can You Be Charged With a Traffic Violation and an OVI?
Yes, you can be charged with both a traffic violation and an OVI at the same time. These offenses can result in separate convictions that each carry their own penalties. You also must defend against both of these charges through separate processes. Though they are separate offenses, a traffic violation can sometimes escalate the severity of your OVI charge.
Are the OVI Penalties in Ohio Worse If You Caused an Accident?
Yes, the OVI penalties can be worse if you caused an accident. The level of charges and penalties depends on the level of damage and any fatalities that occurred. Typically, charges are escalated for more serious physical harm or fatalities, compared to accidents that involved only property damage or minor injury. When fatalities do occur, you may be charged with aggravated vehicular homicide, which is a felony offense.
Can You Refuse Chemical Testing in Ohio?
Under Ohio’s implied consent law, you should not refuse a chemical test. Refusing a chemical test, including blood, breath, or urine testing, can lead to penalties such as immediate license suspension. It may also be used as an admission of guilt, making it more challenging to defend against OVI charges.
What Can You Do If You Are Wrongly Charged With an OVI During a Traffic Stop?
If you were wrongly charged with an OVI during a traffic stop, you should comply with the arrest. However, avoid giving a personal statement or answering questions about the case, even if you believe you can explain your side of the story or clear up a misunderstanding. Instead, request to contact a lawyer; then, remain silent. A lawyer can build a defense strategy based on Akron and Stow OVI laws that pursues dismissed charges or not guilty verdicts.
Learn How DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder Can Help
There are so many roads and intersections in Akron and Stow that seem to always be patrolled for traffic infractions. While most traffic stops simply lead to a ticket, when they result in an OVI charge, it is important to get legal guidance swiftly. Contact DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder after a traffic stop in Akron or Stow.
