Ohio troopers urge sober driving for Christmas
With Christmas being a few days away, the Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding drivers to drive sober while traveling for the holidays. Troopers will be focusing on removing impaired drivers from roadways in an effort to reduce fatal and injury crashes.According to officials, in 2020, there were 10 fatal crashes that killed 12 people during the four-day holiday period. Of the 10 fatalities where seat belts were available, nine were left unbelted. In addition, four crashes were speed and operating a vehicle while under the influence related, officials said.“As usual, we expect traffic to pick up as holiday celebrations begin, and being responsible when traveling to and from holiday gatherings is key to everyone’s safety,” Gov. Mike DeWine said. “Please don’t forget to wear your seatbelt, and if you plan on drinking, please designate a driver.”During last year’s reporting period, officers made 145 arrests for OVI. Last year’s reporting period ran from Dec. 24 through Dec. 27. The reporting period for this year will be Dec. 23 to Dec. 26. “Designating a sober driver is the smartest decision motorists can make,” Col. Richard Fambro said. “Ensuring everyone’s safety while traveling on Ohio’s roadways is our priority.”Additional crash information is available on the Ohio Statistics and Analytics for Traffic Safety crash dashboard here.The patrol reminds drivers to plan ahead, designate a sober driver or make other arrangements.Drivers are encouraged to report impaired drivers and drug activity to the patrol by calling #677.
COLUMBUS, Ohio —
With Christmas being a few days away, the Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding drivers to drive sober while traveling for the holidays.
Troopers will be focusing on removing impaired drivers from roadways in an effort to reduce fatal and injury crashes.
According to officials, in 2020, there were 10 fatal crashes that killed 12 people during the four-day holiday period.
Of the 10 fatalities where seat belts were available, nine were left unbelted. In addition, four crashes were speed and operating a vehicle while under the influence related, officials said.
“As usual, we expect traffic to pick up as holiday celebrations begin, and being responsible when traveling to and from holiday gatherings is key to everyone’s safety,” Gov. Mike DeWine said.
“Please don’t forget to wear your seatbelt, and if you plan on drinking, please designate a driver.”
During last year’s reporting period, officers made 145 arrests for OVI.
Last year’s reporting period ran from Dec. 24 through Dec. 27. The reporting period for this year will be Dec. 23 to Dec. 26.
“Designating a sober driver is the smartest decision motorists can make,” Col. Richard Fambro said. “Ensuring everyone’s safety while traveling on Ohio’s roadways is our priority.”
Additional crash information is available on the Ohio Statistics and Analytics for Traffic Safety crash dashboard here.
The patrol reminds drivers to plan ahead, designate a sober driver or make other arrangements.
Drivers are encouraged to report impaired drivers and drug activity to the patrol by calling #677.