Patrol out in force Memorial Day weekend

Ohio State Highway Patrol information

COLUMBUS — The Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding drivers this Memorial Day to not get behind the wheel impaired. Troopers and local law enforcement will be joining forces in an effort to keep Ohio roads fatality free this holiday.

Troopers made 763 OVI arrests during the 2014 Memorial Day holiday. During the extended weekend, 13 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes, of which 54 percent were OVI related. The Patrol is urging motorists to never drive impaired and always designate a sober driver.

“The Patrol is committed to keeping Ohioans safe on the roadways, especially over weekends that encourage higher amounts of travel,” said Colonel Paul A. Pride, Patrol superintendent. “Planning ahead to designate a sober driver and always buckling up can help ensure tragedies do not occur.”

In addition, as part of the national Click It or Ticket enforcement mobilization running through May 31, troopers will have a zero tolerance policy for those not wearing a safety belt. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, safety belts saved an estimated 12,174 lives nationwide in 2012.

Motorists are encouraged to call #677 to report impaired drivers or drug activity.