Holiday Traffic Safety Initiative Announced
The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) has announced a special enforcement period from December 24 through December 28, focusing on reducing traffic incidents during the holiday season.
During this timeframe, troopers will be highly visible and will strictly enforce laws against driving under the influence, speeding, distracted driving, and seat belt violations.
An OSHP spokesperson stated that this effort is part of the patrol's ongoing commitment to enhance safety for families traveling to celebrate the holidays.
“You can help make the holidays safer for those around you by simply being an alert and responsible driver,” Governor Mike DeWine said. “This Christmas, and throughout the year, I encourage all drivers in Ohio to put their seatbelts on, put their phones away and put their full focus on the road.”
Previous Holiday Statistics
During the last Christmas holiday reporting period, three fatal crashes resulted in three deaths, according to the spokesperson. One of these incidents was connected to alcohol or drug impairment. In the other two fatal crashes, the drivers were reportedly wearing seat belts at the time of the collisions.
In the 2024 reporting period, OSHP reported making 44 arrests for impaired driving, issuing 84 citations for seat belt violations, and 31 citations for distracted driving.
“Every driver has the ability to make our roads safer this holiday season,” Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent, said. “We will have zero tolerance for impaired or reckless driving to stop preventable crashes before they happen.”
The patrol urges motorists on Ohio highways to report dangerous or impaired drivers by calling #677.
