I-90 Rest Areas Are Gone—What That Means for Tired, Impaired, and Distracted Drivers
The I-90 rest areas in Lake County closed on October 14, 2025 for demolition and reconstruction. This site serves as the last rest area for eastbound motorists traveling on I-90 in Ohio. For the next year, drivers won’t have anywhere to safely pull over, rest, or take a break. That’s a serious problem—especially when fatigue, impairment, or distraction is already putting lives at risk.
When There’s Nowhere Safe to Stop
The nearest westbound rest area is now on State Route 2 in Vermilion or along the Ohio Turnpike—miles away from where drivers might need them most. When you’re fighting to stay awake or struggling with exhaustion, those extra miles can be deadly. Drowsy driving causes thousands of accidents every year. Without accessible rest stops, tired drivers are more likely to push through instead of pulling over.
This isn’t just about convenience. It’s about preventing accidents. When drivers can’t safely stop, they take risks—nodding off, losing focus, or making dangerous decisions behind the wheel.
Impaired and Distracted Drivers Don’t Get a Pass
The rest area closures make Ohio’s highways more dangerous for everyone. Watch for these hazardous behaviors on the road:
- Impaired drivers who might have pulled over to sleep it off now have fewer safe options
- Distracted drivers checking phones with no convenient place to handle those tasks safely
- Drowsy drivers pushing through fatigue instead of taking a necessary break
- Erratic drivers making poor decisions because they can’t find a place to stop
If a drunk, drowsy, or distracted driver causes an accident, they’re liable for the harm they cause. Lack of rest areas doesn’t excuse reckless behavior—it amplifies the consequences.
How to Protect Yourself on I-90
With limited rest stops available, you need to be proactive about your safety:
- Plan your route before you leave and identify alternative stopping points along the way
- Watch for erratic lane changes, sudden braking, or inconsistent speeds
- Maintain extra following distance to give yourself more reaction time
- Find the nearest safe place to exit the highway and stop immediately if you feel tired
Your life isn’t worth saving a few minutes. Gas stations, parking lots, and highway exits can serve as temporary rest spots if needed.
Hold Dangerous Drivers Accountable
Reckless drivers put everyone at risk. Whether they’re impaired, exhausted, or distracted, they need to be held responsible for the harm they cause.
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your highway accident claim. When a dangerous driver injures you, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (877) 944-4373 so that I can evaluate your case right away.
