OSP warns against drinking and driving this Fourth of July weekend

COLUMBUS — UPDATE @10:40 a.m.

Governor DeWine is urging Ohioans to stay safe this Fourth of July weekend.

The tragedies that follow after driving impaired make lasting impacts on families. Make this a safe holiday for everyone by planning a sober ride home. https://t.co/G4mnfBXlQS
— Governor Mike DeWine (@GovMikeDeWine) July 1, 2022

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The Ohio State Highway Patrol announced that they will be highly visible and cracking down on impaired drivers during the Fourth of July holiday, in a media release Friday. The July 4th holiday reporting period begins Friday, July 1, at 12 a.m. and will end Monday, July 4, at 11:59 p.m.

>>UPDATE: Man killed in crash involving tanker truck in Harrison Twp.

The Patrol’s zero-tolerance policy is part of the national, “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Operation Care,” campaign aimed at removing impaired drivers from the roadways, the OSP said.

“Large gatherings with alcohol consumption increases the possibility of impaired driving,” said Colonel Richard S. Fambro, OSP Superintendent. “Planning ahead and designating a sober driver saves live.”

During last year’s Fourth of July reporting period, July 2-5, there were of 21 fatal crashes that killed 23 peole, the OSP said. 12 of those crashes and fatalities involved alcohol and/or drugs and The Patrol recorded over 500 OVI arrests during that period.

>>Crews are on scene of an injury crash near Eastwood Lake in Dayton

Motorists are encouraged to call #677 to reported impaired drivers, drug activity or stranded motorists, the OSP said.