COLUMBUS – The Ohio State Highway Patrol will be highly visible on Ohio’s roadways during the upcoming Memorial Day weekend to promote traffic safety. Troopers are reminding drivers to use safety belts and designate sober drivers. This safety effort begins at midnight on Friday, May 24, and continues through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, May 27.
Last year, Memorial Day weekend saw 24 fatal crashes in Ohio, resulting in 26 deaths. Of these, 18 crashes and 19 fatalities were OVI-related. Among those who died with a safety belt available, 11 of the 13 were unbelted. Additionally, seven of the 10 motorcyclists killed were not wearing helmets.
“Memorial Day weekend is a time for remembrance and reflection, but it’s also a busy time on our roads,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “This Memorial Day and every day, I encourage drivers to make responsible decisions each and every time they get behind the wheel.”
The Patrol made 399 impaired driving arrests during last year’s Memorial Day weekend. “Memorial Day weekend marks the start of summer and we encourage everyone to make responsible choices behind the wheel,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol Superintendent.
The Patrol is also participating in the 6-State Trooper Project and the Click It or Ticket campaign to enhance road safety. Call #677 to report drug activity and dangerous or impaired driving on Ohio roadways.
