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COLUMBUS – During the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) will be promoting traffic safety by conducting high-visibility enforcement on roadways across the state. The effort begins at midnight on Friday, May 23 and continues through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, May 26.
As motorists travel throughout the weekend, they are reminded to utilize their safety belts and be responsible by designating a sober driver. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), one person is killed every 39 minutes in a drunk-driving crash, totaling more than 13,000 lives lost each year.
“Memorial Day is a busy time on Ohio’s roads as many Ohioans travel to spend time with family and friends,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “I encourage all drivers to be alert and prioritize safety behind the wheel.”
If you’re a designated driver, it’s important to take the role seriously and not consume alcohol or use other drugs. Other safety tips provided by NHTSA include:
- Don’t let someone get behind the wheel if that person has been drinking.
- If you’re hosting a gathering, make sure everyone has a sober ride home.
- Always wear your safety belt. It’s your best defense against impaired drivers.
Last year in Ohio, 26 people were killed in 22 fatal crashes during the four-day Memorial Day weekend reporting period. According to Patrol statistics, 18 of those fatalities were OVI-related. In the fatalities where a safety belt was available, eight of the 14 were unbelted.
“As we gather with friends and family this Memorial Day weekend to honor those who gave their lives in support of freedom, let’s not forget that safety on our roadways is a shared responsibly,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “Wear your safety belt, stay focused and never drive impaired. The decisions you make could save a life.”
During last year’s four-day reporting period, the Patrol made 361 impaired driving arrests.
In addition to the Memorial Day weekend enforcement, the Patrol is continuing the 6-State Trooper Project, focusing on the use of safety belts. This effort includes the Indiana State Police, Kentucky State Police, Michigan State Police, Pennsylvania State Police, West Virginia State Police and the Ohio State Highway Patrol. The initiative began May 19 and will continue through May 26.
The Patrol is also taking part in the Click It or Ticket campaign, which runs May 5 through June 12.
You can help contribute to a safer Ohio by calling #677 to report drug activity and dangerous or impaired driving on Ohio roadways.
