COLUMBUS - In anticipation of heavy traffic during the Fourth of July holiday, the Ohio State Highway Patrol is urging motorists to contribute to roadway safety by planning ahead for increased drive time and making safety their first priority while driving. The Patrol is asking motorists that are partaking in holiday celebrations to designate a sober driver or call a taxi to assure that you arrive at your destination safely.

Last year during the Fourth of July holiday there were four fatal crashes and 428 injury crashes during the 48-hour reporting period of July 3-4, 2006. Of the fatal crashes 75% were OVI-related.

"We all share the responsibility of making this a safe holiday on Ohio roadways by obeying all traffic laws, driving with courtesy, and by drivers insisting that every occupant buckles their safety belt before traveling," Colonel Richard H. Collins, Patrol superintendent, said. "If you plan to consume alcohol during this week’s holiday, as always, make sure you have a sober driver."

Increased and specialized enforcement is made possible through federal overtime funding and works 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 recommend that motorists contact the Patrol by calling 1-877-7-PATROL when they see a disabled vehicle or unsafe driver.

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2006 July 4th OVI & Fatal Map

 

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