The Van Wert County Courthouse

Thursday, Mar. 28, 2024

Patrol out in force over holiday weekend

VW independent/submitted information

The Ohio State Highway Patrol wants motorists to drive cautiously when out during Memorial Day, as troopers tend to see an increase in traffic deaths over this weekend. Troopers and local law enforcement will join together to work towards a fatality-free holiday weekend on Ohio roads.

Seven of the 16 statewide traffic deaths during the Memorial Day weekend in 2015 were related to impairment, equaling 44 percent. To stay safe over the weekend, the Patrol is urging motorists to never drive impaired and always designate a sober driver.

osplogoThe Patrol made 546 OVI arrests during the Memorial Day weekend in 2015.

The Van Wert Post is focusing on the safety of motorists traveling through the area.

“The Van Wert Post is responsible for nearly 800 square miles of roads in Van Wert and Paulding counties,” said Sergeant Jonathon Gray, assistant post commander at the Van Wert Post. “You will see troopers patrolling this weekend in proactive enforcement efforts to ensure motorists are not impaired, unbelted, or driving distracted.”

In addition, as part of the national Click It or Ticket enforcement mobilization running through June 5, troopers will have a zero tolerance policy for those not wearing a safety belt. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, almost 50 percent of occupants of fatal crashes nationwide in 2015 were not restrained; this highlights the need for increased enforcement and awareness of safety belt use.

Motorists are encouraged to call #677 to report any type of impaired drivers or drug activity.

POSTED: 05/27/16 at 7:47 am. FILED UNDER: News