Dan Sabol
Dan is the first attorney in Ohio to be both board certified in criminal trial law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy and be designated as a Lawyer Scientist by the American Chemical Society.
Chase Mallory
Chase Mallory is a firm founder whom has tried over 40 cases and conducted more than 100 suppression hearings. He is a founding member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association
Meet the lawyers who make up the legal team at Sabol Mallory LLC. Read their individual bios and get to know more about their education, experience and accolades.
Learn more about our teamWinter Weather in Ohio: A Risk for Drivers 
During Ohio’s cold months, winter storms and unpredictable weather play a critical role in making the roads more dangerous. Snow, freezing rain, and black ice are common throughout the state. As the temperature drops, icy roads become a significant hazard, and even the most experienced drivers can lose control of their vehicles. According to statistics from the Ohio Department of Transportation, winter weather accounts for nearly 40% of all car accidents in the state, with December through February being the most dangerous months for driving. When drivers are not accustomed to these conditions, the chances of getting into a collision increase.
While most drivers may exercise caution, some still drive aggressively or without sufficient regard for road conditions. Unfortunately, accidents that happen under these circumstances often lead to hit-and-run situations. Drivers involved in a crash may panic and decide to flee the scene, fearing the consequences of their actions. This response, driven by fear or confusion, may seem like an escape, but the legal consequences can be much worse. When a driver leaves the scene of an accident, especially in winter conditions, it can result in significant legal and financial trouble, not to mention the moral responsibility of leaving others in need of assistance.
Visibility Challenges and Winter Driving
Another key factor contributing to the increase in hit-and-run accidents during Ohio’s winter months is poor visibility. Reduced daylight hours in the winter mean that drivers are more likely to be driving during periods of low light or even complete darkness. When snowstorms or heavy rain occur, it makes it even harder to see the road ahead or identify obstacles, such as other vehicles or pedestrians. Drivers who struggle to see other road users may not react in time to avoid collisions, which increases the likelihood of accidents. In these conditions, many drivers may not realize the full extent of the damage or injury they’ve caused until after they’ve already fled the scene. Others may simply panic and choose to leave the scene, hoping that it will be easier to avoid responsibility. However, fleeing the scene of an accident is a crime in Ohio, and leaving after causing a collision, particularly in adverse winter conditions, can lead to serious charges. It’s essential that drivers understand the legal implications of leaving an accident site, even if they feel scared or overwhelmed by the situation.Client
Testimonials
Learn what our clients have to say about the work of Sabol Mallory. If you have any questions or need legal help for a criminal charge, please reach out to us right away.
Chase Mallory is incredible. He is wonderful to work with and knows exactly what to do to help his clients. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you've done for me. I highly recommend hiring Chase to help fight your battles. Bless you!
- Erin R.
Dan Sabol is probably the best attorney I've ever worked with. Very professional and worked hard to get the best results possible. He will be the first person I call if I need a lawyer again. If you find yourself in a sticky situation make sure you give him a ring.
- Christopher R.
I had the pleasure of working with Dan and Chase and I am very grateful!! They did amazing work to help me on my case. They are very helpful and get back with you in a timely manner whenever I had questions for them, which was very nice and reassuring.
- Jessica H.
Psychological and Emotional Responses to Winter Accidents
Winter accidents can be emotionally charged events. When the weather is bad, the stress of driving can make people anxious, and the possibility of a collision might lead them to make rash decisions. A driver involved in a car accident may experience a heightened level of anxiety, especially if they believe they may be at fault. These emotions, combined with the fear of being held responsible for damages or injuries, can lead some drivers to leave the scene in a panic. It’s important to understand that leaving the scene, no matter the circumstances, only complicates the situation further. Studies suggest that drivers involved in winter accidents often experience higher levels of stress compared to those in accidents during other seasons. This can result in impaired judgment and decision-making. When a driver feels cornered, they may not consider the long-term consequences of leaving the scene, as their only immediate concern is escaping potential punishment. However, fleeing the scene of an accident in Ohio carries severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time.The Legal Consequences of Fleeing the Scene in Ohio
Ohio law takes hit-and-run accidents seriously, especially when a person fails to stop at the scene of an accident where injuries or fatalities occur. If a driver causes a collision and leaves without exchanging information or assisting the injured, they face criminal penalties. In Ohio, leaving the scene of an accident is considered a serious criminal offense, and the severity of the charges increases depending on the nature of the accident. If the crash involves injury or death, the penalties become even more severe, potentially including imprisonment. For example, under Ohio Revised Code Section 4549.02, a driver involved in an accident that results in injury or death must stop and provide their information to the other parties involved. If they fail to do so, they could be charged with a felony. Even in cases where the accident causes only property damage, a hit-and-run charge can still result in serious legal consequences, including fines, jail time, and the loss of driving privileges. This highlights the importance of staying at the scene, regardless of how difficult or inconvenient it may seem in the moment. If you are involved in an accident, it is imperative to stay and assist, even if you believe the crash was not your fault. Leaving the scene of an accident only makes the situation worse and could expose you to a much greater level of legal risk. Sabol Mallory LLC specializes in defending individuals facing these charges and can help you understand your legal options.Preventing Hit-and-Runs in Winter: What Drivers Can Do
Although winter conditions in Ohio make driving more hazardous, there are measures you can take to reduce the risk of a hit-and-run situation. Here are a few essential winter driving tips to help keep yourself and others safe:- Stay Prepared: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and ready for winter driving. This includes checking tire tread, windshield wipers, and ensuring your vehicle has enough antifreeze and other essential fluids.
- Drive Cautiously: Always drive at a speed that is safe for the weather conditions. This might mean reducing speed even if the road appears clear.
- Use Your Headlights: Even during the day, it is important to use your headlights in winter conditions to improve visibility. This makes it easier for other drivers to see you and reduces the chances of a collision.
- Avoid Distractions: Stay focused on the road and avoid distractions such as texting, eating, or using your phone while driving.
- Don’t Panic: If you are involved in an accident, stay calm. Call 911 immediately if there are injuries, and exchange information with the other party involved.
What to Do if You Are Involved in a Winter Accident
If you are involved in a car accident during Ohio’s winter months, there are several critical steps you should follow:- Stay at the Scene: Never leave the scene of an accident, no matter how minor it may seem. Stay and provide the necessary information to the other party involved.
- Call Emergency Services: If anyone is injured or if property damage occurs, call 911 immediately. Reporting the accident to authorities is essential, and it will help protect you legally.
- Document the Scene: If it is safe to do so, take pictures of the accident scene, including damage to the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Exchange Information: Make sure to exchange names, addresses, insurance details, and phone numbers with the other driver(s).
- Contact an Attorney: If you are facing a hit-and-run charge or any other legal issue related to the accident, contact a skilled attorney at Sabol Mallory LLC immediately. An experienced lawyer can help protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.