Call #677 To Report Drunks, Ohio State Patrol Says

In anticipation of increased traffic during the Thanksgiving holiday, the Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding the drivers of the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Last year during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, 17 people were killed on Ohio’s roadways with 30 percent related to impaired driving. Last year 27 people were killed due to impaired driving between the Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve Holidays.

AAA predicts 43.6 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home over the holiday, up just 0.7 percent from last year. The Patrol is urging motorists to contribute to roadway safety by planning ahead for increased drive time and making safety their first priority.

In Lorain County, highway deaths are up this year.

According to Lt. Hughes from the Ohio State Highway Patrol- Elyria Post, as of Sept. 18, 2012, —23 people have died in fatal crashes in Lorain County during 2012, which is nine deaths ahead of the entire year of 2011

“We can all make a difference in preventing fatalities on Lorain County Roads," Hughes said in September. "Whether you require everyone in your vehicle to buckle up, or you take the keys from someone who is going to drive or ride impaired, you can make a difference."

Col. John Born, Patrol superintendent said safety on the roads is a collective effort.

“We all share the responsibility of contributing to a safe holiday on Ohio roadways by obeying all traffic laws and never driving impaired,” Born, a Patrol superintendent, said. “As a member of the motoring public, you can help save lives by reporting unsafe and aggressive drivers to law enforcement.”

Troopers recommend that motorists contact the Patrol by calling #677 to report drug activity or impaired drivers.