(WKBN) — Now that we are in the grip of winter in the Valley and have experienced some snow and ice on the roads, many drivers who unfortunately find themselves involved in a crash will likely see a citation for failure to provide assured clear distance (ACD).
Some drivers will say, “I was going the speed limit,” or “The driver in front of me slammed on their brakes.” So what does it mean to provide assured clear distance from the vehicle in front of you?
The law is laid out in Ohio Revised Code but is subject to many stipulations.
The law says that “no person shall operate a motor vehicle … at a speed greater or less than is reasonable or proper, having due regard to the traffic, surface, and width of the street or highway and any other conditions, and no person shall drive any motor vehicle … in and upon any street or highway at a greater speed than will permit the person to bring it to a stop within the assured clear distance ahead.”
“Reasonable and proper” are subjective and several factors are taken into account in which the driver is responsible for determining traffic volume, weather, construction, or other issues that would be determining factors to slow down and keep a safe distance. Also, the speed limit is not hardclad. A driver must adjust their speed depending on the conditions no matter what the posted limit is.
AAA suggests drivers allow one car length for every 10 miles per hour of speed, extending this distance in rain or in inclement weather.
The cost of an ACD citation in Ohio can be up to $150 and is a minor misdemeanor.