Colonel Paul McClellan
Superintendent
Ohio State Highway Patrol

Starting July 1, the law regarding impaired driving in Ohio has changed significantly by the lowering of the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit to 0.08. Virtually all drivers are substantially impaired at 0.08 BAC. Laboratory and test track research shows that the vast majority of drivers, even experienced drinkers, are impaired at 0.08 with regard to critical driving tasks. Braking, steering, lane changing, judgment, and divided attention, among other measures, are all affected significantly at 0.08 BAC.

The risk of being involved in a crash increases substantially by 0.08 BAC. The risk of being in a crash gradually increases at each BAC level, but rises very rapidly after a driver reaches or exceeds 0.08 BAC compared to drivers with no alcohol in their blood systems. Research by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety indicates that the relative risk of being killed in a single vehicle crash at 0.08 BAC is 11 times that of drivers at .00 BAC (no alcohol).

Approximately 27 percent, or 344, off the 1,284 fatal crashes in Ohio last year were alcohol-related. Repeat offenders make up 34 percent of all those convicted of drunk driving.

In addition, troopers will be participating in the "You Drink & Drive. You Lose." campaign, targeting impaired drivers in an effort to save lives by preventing alcohol-related crashes.

Motorists can help too by obeying all traffic laws, buckling up, and not drinking and driving. We also need the public to continue using 1-877-7-PATROL when witnessing dangerous drivers or stranded motorists, or 1-800-GRAB DUI to report impaired drivers.

As you gather with family and friends during the summer months, make safety a part of your celebration.

Designate a Driver. It’s about safety.