OHIO — Throughout the state, Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers will be encouraging safe driving as one of the busiest travel periods of the year begins. 

Between Wednesday and Sunday night, OSHP said troopers will be highly visible and will crack down on drivers who are impaired or fail to wear a seatbelt. 

“Driving sober, belted, and focused on the road can help prevent senseless tragedies,” said Gov. Mike DeWine. “I urge everyone to drive responsibly and to buckle up.”

During last year's reporting period, which was Nov. 23 to Nov. 27, 2022, troopers reported 18 fatal crashes, which killed 19 people. There were four instances of pedestrians being hit. 

OSHP said of the 14 crashes without pedestrians involved, seatbelts weren't used in 11 of the incidents even though they were available. 

Alcohol and/or drugs were linked to 12 fatal crashes. The patrol also made 278 arrests for impaired driving and assisted 1,534 motorists.

“We hope everyone has a safe Thanksgiving,” said Col. Charles A. Jones, patrol superintendent. “When you designate a sober driver, put your phone down and properly use safety belts, you are helping save lives.”

To avoid busy roads, the Ohio Department of Transportation released a guide of times to avoid travel in Ohio's major cities throughout the holiday week and into the weekend.