The Ohio State Highway Patrol is warning drivers that they “will have an enhanced presence” on the roads during the holiday travel period in order to “promote and enforce safe driving.”

What You Need To Know

  • OSHP says they will be more present on the roads during the popular holiday travel period

  • This will last from Nov. 27 through Dec. 1

  • During the holiday travel period last year, they say 13 people died across 12 crashes

This increased presence will go from 12 a.m. Nov. 27 through 11:59 p.m. Dec. 1, according to an OSHP press release. During this period, they will watching for impaired drivers and those not wearing their seat belt in particular.

“As we enter the busy holiday travel season, I urge all Ohioans to be safe and smart while behind the wheel,” Gov. Mike DeWine said in the release. “All drivers have the opportunity to prevent senseless tragedies by driving responsibly, wearing a seat belt, and remaining focused on the road.”

The release states that during the Thanksgiving travel period in 2023, 13 people died in 12 crashes.

“Within the same reporting period, five crashes and six fatalities involved alcohol and/or drugs,” the release reads. “Of the nine fatalities in which safety belts were available, two were unbelted. Two pedestrians and two motorcyclists were killed during this time frame.”

The OSHP says they also arrested 326 people for driving while impaired. They ask anyone who sees an impaired driver, stranded driver or drug activity call #677.

“As we gather this Thanksgiving, we want everyone to enjoy a safe holiday,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent, in the release. “By designating a sober driver, staying focused on the road and ensuring everyone is properly wearing a safety belt, you’re not just protecting yourself – you’re helping to save lives."

Be sure to check weather conditions before you travel, as a potential storm could affect road conditions.

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