COLUMBUS – In observance of National Drunk and Drugged Driving (3D) Prevention Month, Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers are giving impaired drivers notice: You Drink & Drive. You Lose.

This month, the Patrol will target impaired drivers in an effort to save lives by preventing alcohol-related crashes. Impaired drivers caused the death of 379 people last year in Ohio.

“The holidays will not be as enjoyable this year for hundreds of families in Ohio who will be without loved ones who were killed in crashes caused by impaired drivers this year,” Colonel Paul McClellan, superintendent of the Patrol said. “Impaired driving is a serious crime that costs Ohioans millions of dollars each year in emergency care costs, lost property and, most importantly, precious lives.”

This holiday season, the Patrol has joined law enforcement agencies across the country to intensify the fight against impaired driving by joining the You Drink & Drive. You Lose. public education campaign. The Patrol hopes to save lives in Ohio and help reach the national goal of reducing alcohol-related deaths nationwide to no more than 11,000 by the year 2005.

Troopers are reminding motorists to designate a sober driver, hire a taxi, call a safe ride program, or make other responsible arrangements. Don’t drink and drive. Because if You Drink & Drive. You Lose.

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