Patrol to Focus on Impaired Drivers this Holiday Season

COLUMBUS – The Ohio State Highway Patrol will be working to remove impaired drivers from our roadways this holiday season. In an effort to reduce fatal and injury crashes, troopers will focus enforcement on impaired drivers and seatbelt violations.

Last year in Ohio, 27 people died in 24 crashes between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day. Of those crashes, nine were OVI-related, resulting in 10 deaths.

“Impaired driving increases around the holidays, which can make this a dangerous time of year,” said Colonel Paul A. Pride, Patrol superintendent. “Drivers need to have a plan. If you plan to drink, don’t drive. Designate a sober driver and always wear seatbelts.”

Last year the Patrol arrested 659 drivers for OVI between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day.

Motorists should also drive extra cautiously when roads become slick from snow and ice. Slow down, allow extra time to get to destinations and maintain a safe distance between other vehicles.

The public is encouraged to call #677 to report impaired drivers and drug activity.