OSHP works to warn teens of dangers

CANFIELD -- Spring is a time of celebration for teenagers, most of whom are involved with proms and graduations, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol remains vigilant to remove impaired and aggressive drivers from Ohio roads and hopes to secure the future of those teens.
"Troopers work year-round to modify poor driving behaviors before they result in crashes," said Lt. Chris Heverly, commander of the patrol's Canfield post. "With an aggressive stance on impaired-driving enforcement, we can move even closer to achieving our highway safety goals during the spring and summer driving season."
Impaired driving continues to be a serious problem for teens. Traffic crashes are the leading cause of death for 16- to 25-year-olds. Last year, of the 326 people age 16 to 25 who were killed in traffic crashes, almost 37 percent were involved in alcohol-related crashes.
Troopers across the state will conduct special presentations, stage mock crashes, and work with local schools on additional programs. In addition, area law enforcement agencies, state liquor agents, and alcohol retailers will participate in collaborative efforts to curtail the illegal purchase of alcohol and the use of fake identification.
While troopers will dedicate time to educate teens, they are also committed to high-visibility enforcement in an effort to apprehend teens who choose to drink alcohol underage and/or drive impaired.