COLUMBUS – In recognition of Vehicle Safety Recalls Week, sponsored by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding motorists of the importance of checking and addressing vehicle safety recalls and routine maintenance.

According to NHTSA, recalls were issued for 1,000 vehicles, car seats, tires, recreational vehicles and other equipment in 2023. In total, the agency reports that 34 million vehicles in the United States were impacted by recalls, 25% of which were never repaired.

“Many defect-related crashes are preventable, and I encourage all drivers to routinely check their vehicles to ensure that they’re safe to drive,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “Keeping up with vehicle maintenance is one way that all drivers can contribute to safer roads.”

Patrol data collected from 2020-2024 indicates that older vehicles were involved in a greater number of vehicle defect-related crashes. Vehicles from model years 2001-2010 accounted for 44% of these crashes, while vehicles from model years 2011-2020 were involved in 32% of such crashes.

“Regular vehicle maintenance is essential for your safety and the safety of others,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “Neglecting maintenance can lead to dangerous situations on the road, so take the time to ensure your vehicle is operating safely.”

Over the last five years, there were 35 fatal crashes that were vehicle defect-related, resulting in 43 deaths on Ohio roadways, according to Patrol analytics. Tire blowouts, brake defects and defective trailer equipment were the leading causes of these fatal crashes. Another 2,715 individuals were injured in defect-related crashes during this same timeframe.

A statistical map containing vehicle defect crash information and statistics can be found here, and additional crash information is available on the Patrol’s Ohio Statistics and Analytics for Traffic Safety (OSTATS) Crash Dashboard.

The public is encouraged to safely call #677 when you see unsafe driving or if you need assistance on Ohio roadways.