Ohio State Highway Patrol urges sober driving

As families and friends gather for winter celebrations, the Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding drivers of the dangers of impaired driving and sharing safety tips to help ensure a safe holiday season.

“As we gather with loved ones for winter celebrations, it’s important to remember that impaired driving has no place on Ohio’s roads,” Gov. Mike DeWine said. “I encourage every driver to make a plan for a sober ride home.”

December is historically one of the deadliest months on Ohio roads due to an increase in impaired driving. The Patrol is intensifying enforcement efforts this month and has zero tolerance for drivers operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs or a combination of both.

Since 2020, Ohio has recorded 69,061 crashes in which alcohol and/or drugs were a factor. Those crashes resulted in 3,896 deaths, accounting for about 54 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities.

Impaired driving remains a leading factor in serious and fatal crashes during the holiday season. The Patrol is asking all drivers to take personal responsibility by designating a sober driver, understanding the different types of impairment and knowing the consequences.

Designating a sober driver: Before celebrations begin, choose a sober driver. If plans change, call a friend or a rideshare service. Never assume you are safe to drive after consuming alcohol or drugs.

Understanding impairment: Troopers are trained to detect impairment not only from alcohol but also from marijuana and other drugs that negatively affect driving ability.

Knowing the consequences: An OVI conviction carries penalties that can include jail time, heavy fines and a license suspension. These penalties, officials emphasize, are minor compared with the lifelong burden of causing a fatal crash.

“Every driver needs to make the conscious choice to promote roadway safety,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “That means designating a sober driver before the first drink, understanding that impairment isn’t just limited to alcohol and realizing the consequences of driving impaired.”

According to Patrol statistics, troopers have issued nearly 95,000 OVI-related citations since the start of 2020. Nearly one-quarter of those citations involved drivers impaired by marijuana and/or other drugs.

Drivers are encouraged to work together to keep Ohio’s roads safe this holiday season. Impaired driving is never worth the risk. Motorists can call #677 to report impaired driving, drug activity or reckless operation.