In anticipation of increased traffic during the Thanksgiving holiday, the Ohio State Highway Patrol is
reminding drivers to buckle up every trip, every time. Properly wearing a safety belt is the single most
effective thing you can do to protect yourself in a crash. In addition, remember to follow all traffic
laws and not drive impaired.
Last year during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, 17 people were killed in 15 fatal crashes on Ohio’s
roadways. Seven of the 17 fatalities, 41 percent, were the result of an impaired driver. That is why
troopers will be out in full force this weekend, looking for and removing these dangerous drivers from
our roadways.
AAA predicts more than 46 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home over the holiday. The
Patrol expects traffic to increase Wednesday afternoon and is urging motorists to contribute to highway
safety by planning ahead for possible delays and making safety their first priority.
"Help keep the holiday safe for you, your family and your fellow motorists by remembering to buckle
up, obeying traffic laws and never driving impaired," said Colonel Paul A. Pride, Patrol
superintendent. "You can also help save lives by reporting unsafe and aggressive drivers to law
enforcement."
Troopers recommend that motorists contact the Patrol by calling #677 to report drug activity or impaired
drivers.