OHIO, USA — The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) is sending an important message to holiday travelers ahead of Thanksgiving.
This time of year is traditionally one of the busiest travel periods, especially since people are hitting the roads to visit friends and family for the holidays.
Troopers will have an enhanced presence throughout the state in an effort to promote and enforce safe driving as both local and visitor travel numbers are expected to increase.
“As we enter the busy holiday travel season, I urge all Ohioans to be safe and smart while behind the wheel,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “All drivers have the opportunity to prevent senseless tragedies by driving responsibly, wearing a seat belt, and remaining focused on the road.”
Not all do but many Thanksgiving celebrations may include alcohol, which increases the possibility of impaired driving. During last year’s Thanksgiving reporting (Nov. 22-26,) there were 12 fatal crashes in which 13 people were killed.
Within the same reporting period, five crashes and six fatalities involved alcohol and/or drugs.
Of the nine fatalities in which safety belts were available, two were unbelted. Two pedestrians and two motorcyclists were also killed during this time frame.
“As we gather this Thanksgiving, we want everyone to enjoy a safe holiday,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, patrol superintendent. “By designating a sober driver, staying focused on the road and ensuring everyone is properly wearing a safety belt, you’re not just protecting yourself – you’re helping to save lives."
An increased trooper presence will be cracking down on impaired drivers and those failing to wear a safety belt from Nov. 27 at midnight through 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 1.
So far in 2024, OSHP has made 326 arrests related to impaired driving.
To report impaired drivers, drug activity or stranded motorists on Ohio roadways, call #677.
