COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding drivers to travel safely this Memorial Day weekend, as they will be on patrol to promote traffic safety. 

Starting Friday through Monday at 11:59 p.m., OSHP will be highly visible on roadways. 

“Memorial Day weekend is always a fun time to be in Ohio, but if you’re traveling our roadways, I urge you to make responsible decisions,” said Gov. Mike DeWine in a press release. “Buckling up and driving sober are essential to ensuring everyone on our roads is safe this holiday and all summer.”

Last year, there were 15 fatal crashes that resulted in 18 people killed in Ohio during Memorial Day weekend. Of them, six crashes and seven fatalities were related to OVIs. In the fatalies where safety belts were available, all of them weren't wearing them. 

In addition, half of the eight motorcyclists who died didn't wear a helmet. 

“Too many times our troopers see tragic loss of life on our roadways due to irresponsible decisions,” said Col. Charles A. Jones. “Before heading out, make a plan, designate a sober driver and buckle up.”

Five pedestrians also died last Memorial Day weekend. Troopers made 494 impaired driving arrests. 

While the OSHP is cracking down Memorial Day weekend, they're also putting a heavy focus on using seatbelts. It's continuing the 6-State Trooper Project, which is a high invisibility effort in collaboration with Indiana State Police, Kentucky State Police, Michigan State Police, Pennsylvania State Police and West Virginia State Police. The effort began Monday and will continue through May 29. 

Drivers be aware of road conditions this year, as the American Automobile Association predicts a surge in travelers for the holiday weekend. Click here to find out when is the best time to travel.