With Labor Day weekend travel already underway for many Ohioans, law enforcement officials are urging drivers to be safe, and stay alive. The State Patrol is encouraging drivers to plan ahead before hitting the road to leave time for unexpected traffic congestion.
Nearly 85 percent of all travelers this holiday weekend will be driving to their destinations, according to AAA.
Ohio State Patrol officials say typical late night pop-up construction will be suspended for the holiday weekend.
But State Trooper Sgt. Chris Colbert in Dayton says motorists should remain alert for lane restrictions on highways and side roads.
“If people can just think ahead a little bit, focus on driving, stay off your text messages, stay off your email -- that way everybody has a safe and happy holiday,” he says.
Colbert says OVI drunk-driving enforcement will be stepped up this weekend. He urges drivers to avoid drinking and driving altogether and plan a safe way home.
“Have a designated driver, have your Uber account setup, or whatever ride program you use, money for a cab.”
Last year over Labor Day weekend, State Patrol numbers show 15 people were killed in traffic accidents. Many were related to drunk driving or a lack of seatbelts, officials say.
The Patrol also made 749 OVI arrests last year at this time.
