As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) is ramping up efforts to ensure that the roads remain safe for the influx of travelers. Troopers will be highly visible from tomorrow until Sunday, December 1, focusing on seat belt enforcement and cracking down on impaired driving. In a statement obtained by the Ohio State Highway Patrol website, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine said, “All drivers have the opportunity to prevent senseless tragedies by driving responsibly, wearing a seat belt, and remaining focused on the road.”
Impaired driving is a major concern during the Thanksgiving period due to the high rate of traffic and the prevalence of alcohol consumption. Reflecting on last year’s statistics, the stress is evident: 12 fatal crashes with 13 fatalities occurred within the 2018 Thanksgiving reporting period, and six of these fatalities involved alcohol and drugs. A sobering figure, especially considering that two of the nine fatalities involved individuals who were not buckled up. Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent, emphasized the importance of safety, stating via the Ohio State Highway Patrol website, “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." This message is clear as OSHP looks to prevent the tragedies of past holidays.
The Patrol's efforts are not limited to enforcement but also involve community engagement. Motorists are encouraged to be part of the solution by safely calling #677 to report impaired drivers and roadside emergencies to the Patrol. Last year, the Patrol made 326 arrests for impaired driving during the Thanksgiving season, indicating a proactive stance in removing dangers from the road.
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