87 and counting: ODOT crews have already been hit more this year than last

LEBANON, Ohio — The number of roadside crews getting hit at worksites is growing in Ohio. State transportation officials say that's unacceptable.

87 Ohio Department of Transportation workers, vehicles and equipment have been hit across the state so far in 2025. That's compared to 84 for the entire year of 2024.

"Unfortunately, I expect (the number) will probably continue to go up," ODOT Press Secretary Matt Bruning said. "Some of our people are desensitized to it. They just accept it as part of the job, and they shouldn't have to accept it as part of the job."

Bruning said typically, most incidents happen during winter months when icy and snowy weather creates dangerous road conditions. That was especially the case at the start of this year. But workers, vehicles and equipment are vulne