COLUMBUS –In an effort to make Ohio roads safer by reducing dangerous driving, the Ohio State Highway Patrol will increase enforcement of crash-causing violations associated with Extreme Driving and impaired driving on Ohio’s roadways over the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

Increased and specialized enforcement is made possible through federal overtime funding and worked in conjunction with Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort), which was formed as a multi-jurisdictional national program of patrol, enforcement, and planning activities committed to crash reduction.

Troopers will continue their efforts in five of Ohio’s major metropolitan communities by cracking down on Extreme Driving, including speeds of over 100 mph, unsafe lane changes, and other types of reckless and dangerous driving.

Patrol enforcement of operating a vehicle impaired (OVI) and Extreme Driving arrests are impacting the reduction in fatalities in Ohio. Nearly one in four enforcement-related arrests made by troopers is for Extreme Driving or OVI.

“Our troopers are going to continue encouraging the motoring public’s use of safety belts, motorcycle safety equipment including helmets, and avoiding impaired driving during the summer,” Colonel Paul McClellan, Ohio State Highway Patrol superintendent, said. “We hope drivers and passengers are part of the solution in the ongoing efforts to improve the safety on our roadways so everyone may enjoy a safe holiday.”

Motorists can help troopers keep roadways safe by calling toll-free 1-877-7-PATROL to report dangerous drivers, stranded motorists, or other non-emergency roadway issues.

Troopers are also reminding travelers to look out for motorcyclists during the holiday. Motorcycles can be more difficult to see, so it is important to take time to look closely at intersections and while changing lanes.

The Patrol is providing motorcycle safety tips from the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) as part of our Ride Smart. Drive Smart. partnership to help make it a safe and enjoyable motorcycle riding season.

The goal of Ride Smart. Drive Smart. is to help motorcyclists and other drivers share the road safely. Three key safety awareness themes to achieve this goal are Get Trained/Get Licensed; Stay Sober; and to remind other drivers to be aware by looking out for motorcyclists.

For more information on Ride Smart. Drive Smart. click here.

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