CLEVELAND (Feb. 20, 2026) – The Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission teamed up at the Cleveland Auto Show to encourage safe driving behaviors behind the wheel.
Chris Matta, chief engineer/deputy executive director of the turnpike commission, urged drivers of passenger and commercial vehicles not to rely too heavily on technology features in today’s vehicles: “Innovations like forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot warnings are impressive and helpful, yet they’re not a substitute for safe driving behaviors and letting your guard down,” Matta said. “Improving safety isn’t a switch we flip overnight. It’s ongoing work — through education, enforcement, outreach, and most importantly, personal responsibility.”
Sgt. Jeremy Kindler from the highway patrol said troopers will continue high visibility patrols on the Ohio Turnpike throughout 2026, focusing on speeding, distracted driving, and safety belt violations. “Enforcement matters — but we also need drivers to make responsible choices every time they get behind the wheel,” Kindler added. “This includes how we share the road with commercial vehicles. Stay out of their blind spots, don’t cut in front of them, and give them the space they need to stop safely. And we ask commercial drivers to stay alert, follow hours of service rules, and drive appropriately for conditions. Safety is a shared responsibility.”
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