STATE PATROL ATTEMPTS TO SLOW RISING TRAFFIC FATALITIES

With the Holidays and the winter season almost here,

Patrol urges sober, belted driving

Columbus – The Ohio State Highway Patrol is announcing a last enforcement push that will continue through the end of the year in an effort to slow the rising number of fatalities on Ohio’s roadways. As of December 1, Ohio has experienced an increase of 49 fatalities over the same period last year.

This traffic safety operation will target known crash-causing violations such as failure to yield, improper passing/lane changes, unsafe speed, and following too close. Troopers will also focus their attention on impaired and aggressive driving, as well as other high-risk behaviors, such as driver inattention. Troopers will also be committed to firm enforcement of safety belt and child restraint violations.

“Last year we experience the lowest fatality rate in Ohio’s history, and so far this year – fatalities are up, and it is very disheartening,” said Colonel David W. Dicken, Patrol superintendent. “My troopers are going to be out there every day – doing everything they can – to try to reverse this upward trend.”

The Patrol urges motorists to drive sober, buckle-up and keep their eyes on the roads this holiday season. With the holiday and winter season, often comes inclement weather. In addition to driving sober and belted the Patrol would like to offer the following safe winter driving tips:
• Allow extra time to get to your destination.
• Maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and traffic ahead.
• Pay attention to the roadways and weather conditions, as they can change rapidly.
• Always pay close attention to bridges and overpasses, as they are often the first to freeze over.
• If you do slide off the side of the road, stay with your vehicle and call the Patrol at 1-877-7-PATROL.
• If you get stuck in snow, make sure that your tail pipe is free of all snow and debris, to decrease your chance of carbon monoxide poisoning.

The Patrol reminds motorist to call 1-877-7-PATROL (1-877-772-8765) to report aggressive or impaired drivers.