OHIO – From now until Sept. 5, Ohioans will notice an increase in highway check points.

What You Need To Know

  • In 2021, Ohio saw nearly OVI 14,000 crashes
  • Those crashes resulted in more than 700 deaths

  • In 2022, 62% of deadly crashes in Franklin County were OVI related
  • The Ohio State Highway patrol encourages drivers to call #677 if they see any dangerous driving 

Law enforcement agencies across the state are doing everything they can to get impaired drivers off the road. In 2021, Ohio saw 13,762 crashes that involved someone operating a vehicle while under the influence. Nearly 700 of those crashes resulted in deaths. Most drivers at fault for those crashes were between the ages of 21 and 39. 

Ohio officers are doing their best to decrease the number of OVI-related crashes with an increase in checkpoints during the Labor Day weekend. In 2022, 62% of deadly crashes in Franklin County were OVI-related. In a press conference held by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Dallas Baldwin said these accidents are 100% preventable.

“It’s just very important to get the message out that this is a 100% preventable crime that occurs.” said Baldwin. “When you’re out there driving, if you’ve had anything to drink, any drugs, any medications that affect driving, you don’t have to do that. This is a big decision, so make a good decision. Don’t drink, don’t drive, have a plan.”

Every year, dozens of families are affected by someone getting behind the wheel under the influence. Nicole Hogensen lost her sister to a drunk driving accident 17 years ago. Her sister, Caitlin Leasure, was attending Otterbein University, when she was killed by a drunk driver.

Hogensen has spent almost two decades spreading her story and making sure people know the lasting effects of getting behind the wheel under the influence.

“It’s haunting, quite honestly, in the days of car share services, it’s unnecessary. And as we heard the sheriff say this morning, it’s 100% preventable,” said Hogensen. 

Law enforcement encourages everyone to call a friend, or use a rideshare service if they are under any type of influence. The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office said you can even call their non-emergency hotline if you need help to set up a safe ride home.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol encourages drivers to call #677 if they see any dangerous or suspicious driving on the road. 

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