Driver Cited for Entering Closed Construction Zone on Ohio's I-75

Incident highlights risks to road workers and need for driver vigilance in work zones

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A driver was recently cited by the Ohio State Highway Patrol for entering a closed construction zone on I-75 near Dayton, Ohio, underscoring the dangers faced by road workers and the challenges of maintaining safety in active work areas. The incident occurred on January 27, 2026, without any reported injuries.

Why it matters

Construction zones inherently increase the risk of collisions, with distracted driving and failure to adhere to posted speed limits being major contributing factors in work zone accidents. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of driver awareness and responsibility when navigating through construction areas to protect both workers and other motorists.

The details

The driver was cited for traveling against the flow of traffic within the construction zone on I-75 between S.R. 4 and Needmore Road, where significant rehabilitation work is currently underway. These ongoing projects involve traffic pattern shifts, ramp closures, and lane restrictions, all of which heighten the potential for collisions.

  • The incident occurred on January 27, 2026.

The players

Ohio State Highway Patrol

The law enforcement agency that responded to the report of the driver entering the closed construction zone.

Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT)

The state agency responsible for the ongoing rehabilitation projects on the I-75 corridor through Dayton.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The Ohio State Highway Patrol will continue to enforce safety regulations and monitor driver behavior in construction zones along the I-75 corridor.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of driver vigilance and adherence to traffic laws when navigating construction zones, as inattentive driving not only puts the driver at risk but also endangers the lives of road workers. Transportation agencies are increasingly turning to technological solutions to enhance work zone safety, but driver responsibility remains paramount in preventing accidents and protecting those who are working to improve Ohio's infrastructure.