The Ohio State Highway Patrol warned Ohioans it will be highly visible on roadways this st pats day, urging anyone celebrating to avoid impaired driving and to plan a safe ride home.
Why The Patrol Is Emphasizing Sobriety This St Pats Day
The patrol said troopers will be out across the state as part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving” campaign. Officials noted that for some, the holiday includes drinking at bars, restaurants or private gatherings, and that one night of drinking can have deadly consequences if a safe ride home isn’t arranged.
Gov. Mike DeWine said, “Law enforcement will be out in full force around the state this St. Patrick’s Day, so I encourage those planning to celebrate to also plan for a safe ride home. ” OSHP data shows that over the past five years there were 16 deaths from crashes on St. Patrick’s Day in Ohio, and more than half of those fatal crashes involved impaired driving.
Enforcement Steps and Safety Advice
The patrol emphasized visible enforcement and public reminders aimed at keeping impaired drivers off Ohio roadways. Col. Charles Jones, patrol superintendent, urged people who choose to drink to make responsible plans: “If you choose to drink, make the responsible choice to designate a sober driver or use a ride-share service. Don’t let a day of celebration end in a lifetime of regret. ”
The message from law enforcement is prevention first: designate a sober driver, arrange alternate transportation, or avoid driving if impaired. The patrol also reminded drivers that officers will be looking for signs of impairment and that enforcement is intended to reduce fatalities tied to drinking and driving.
How Residents Can Help Keep Roads Safe
Beyond planning ahead for a sober ride, the patrol asked Ohioans to remain vigilant and to report suspected impaired drivers. If anyone suspects someone is driving under the influence, call #677 to connect with the nearest patrol post. Public reporting is framed as a way to intervene before crashes occur and to lower the holiday’s toll on roadways.
Officials reiterated that simple choices before heading out can prevent tragic outcomes. With troopers visible statewide and the NHTSA campaign underlining the risks, the patrol’s guidance is focused on reducing impaired-driving deaths during holiday celebrations.
The patrol said clear planning and community cooperation are central to keeping the state’s roads safer this st pats day, and asked residents to act now to avoid preventable tragedies.
