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Patrol Warns Against Driving Impaired for New Year’s Holiday

todayDecember 30, 2019 1

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COLUMBUS – The Ohio State Highway Patrol is urging drivers who intend to celebrate the New Year’s holiday to plan ahead and designate a sober driver. The Patrol’s zero-tolerance policy is part of the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement campaign.

The New Year’s holiday reporting period begins Tuesday, December 31 at midnight and ends on Wednesday January 1 at 11:59 p.m.

“There are many options to get home safely,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “Planning ahead before you go out is not only the smart thing to do, it’s the right thing to do.”

Eleven fatal crashes killed 12 people during the four-day 2018-2019 New Year’s holiday reporting period. Seven of those crashes and fatalities were OVI related. Of the 9 fatalities in which safety belts were available, seven were unbelted.

During last year’s reporting period, the Patrol made 458 arrests for OVI. Last year’s reporting period ran from Friday, December 28 through Tuesday, January 1.

“We take impaired driving seriously and remain dedicated to enforcing Ohio’s OVI laws,” said Colonel Richard S. Fambro. “We can’t fight the battle against impaired driving on our own – we need your commitment to make our roads safe. You can help us save lives and make our roads safer when you designate a sober driver.”

The Patrol reminds drivers to plan ahead, designate a sober driver or make other arrangements. Motorists are encouraged to report impaired drivers and drug activity to the Patrol by calling #677.

Written by: WKTN Staff

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