OSHP urges sober driving this Memorial Day

COLUMBUS — The Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding drivers this Memorial Day to not get behind the wheel impaired. Troopers and local law enforcement will be joining forces in an effort to keep Ohio roads fatality free this holiday.

Troopers made 705 arrests for operating a vehicle while impaired during the 2013 Memorial Day holiday. During the extended weekend last year, 18 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes – of which 50 percent were OVI related. The patrol is urging drivers to #Drive2SaveLives and always drive sober.

“The patrol wants everyone to get home safely, however the decision to drive while impaired threatens the lives of all citizens,” said Col. Paul A. Pride, superintendent. “Driving impaired is a reckless and preventable act. Planning ahead to designate a sober driver can help ensure these tragedies do not occur.”