COLUMBUS, Ohio — There were fewer fatal accident's on Ohio's roadways this Christmas holiday compared to the previous two years, Ohio State Highway Patorl (OSHP) reported Monday.
During the four-day reporting period, from Thursday, Dec. 24, at 12 a.m. until Sunday, Dec. 27, at 11:59 p.m., nine people were killed in seven fatal crashes. Sixty-six percent of those killed in fatal crashes over the holiday were not wearing a seatbelt.
According to OSHP officials, using a safety belt remains the single most effective thing you can do to protect yourself in a crash.
Troopers removed 142 impaired drivers from Ohio’s roads during the holiday, which is an increase of 137% compared to last year. Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and designate a sober driver or make other arrangements to ensure everyone safely arrives to their destination.
Twelve people were killed in 2019, in which the reporting period ran from Dec. 23 - 25. In 2018, there were 11 people were killed, between Dec. 21 - 25.
The public is encouraged to continue using #677 to report dangerous or impaired drivers, as well as drug activity. A statistical analysis of the patrol’s enforcement activity over the holiday is available online by clicking here.