As fireworks light up the skies this Independence Day, Ohio law enforcement agencies are issuing a serious reminder: don’t drive impaired.
With increased traffic, holiday gatherings, and alcohol consumption, the Fourth of July weekend remains one of the most dangerous times of the year for crashes caused by impaired driving.
From June 30 through July 6, the Ohio State Highway Patrol and local agencies are intensifying efforts through the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign.
Sobriety checkpoints, saturation patrols, and public awareness efforts will be deployed across the state to deter drivers from getting behind the wheel under the influence.
Locally, the Logan County Sheriff’s Office and the Bellefontaine, Russells Point, and Washington Township Police Departments are increasing patrols and enforcement during the holiday weekend.
Logan County Sheriff Randy Dodds issued a firm warning ahead of the celebrations. “We want everyone to enjoy the holiday, but that enjoyment should never come at the cost of someone’s life,” Sheriff Dodds said. “If you choose to drink and drive, you will be caught. Our deputies will be out in full force this Fourth of July, and if you’re impaired, you’ll face the consequences. Plan ahead—don’t make a deadly mistake.”
National statistics show that 38 percent of all traffic fatalities during Fourth of July weekends involve alcohol-impaired driving.
In Ohio, law enforcement responded to more than 800 crashes and made over 700 impaired driving arrests during last year’s Fourth of July travel period.
While Logan County has seen a decline in serious holiday weekend crashes in recent years, officials say continued progress depends on the decisions drivers make before they get behind the wheel.
Law enforcement also reminds drivers that impairment isn’t limited to alcohol.
Driving under the influence of drugs—including marijuana and prescription medication—can also result in an OVI charge in Ohio.
Troopers made over 3,000 drug-related impaired driving arrests in Ohio during the summer months last year, a number that continues to climb.
“If you feel different, you drive different,” Sheriff Dodds said. “That includes any kind of drug—legal or illegal. If it impairs your ability to drive, it’s a danger to you and everyone else on the road.”
Authorities encourage residents to plan ahead by designating a sober driver, arranging for a taxi or ride-share, and watching out for others.
If you see someone attempting to drive impaired, take their keys and help them find a safe way home.
Impaired drivers on the roadway can be reported to law enforcement by calling #677.
This effort is part of a statewide collaboration that includes Mothers Against Drunk Driving, the Ohio Department of Public Safety, local health coalitions, and public safety partners across the region.
Together, they’re spreading a shared message: buzzed driving is drunk driving, and the consequences can be deadly.
Russells Point Police Chief Joe Freyhof says,
“As we celebrate our nation’s independence here in Indian Lake, we urge all motorists to make responsible choices. Driving under the influence endangers not only drivers and passengers, but also pedestrians enjoying holiday events and festivities. This Fourth of July, commit to driving sober and staying alert—help us keep Indian Lake safe for everyone on the road and on foot.”
Whether you’re heading to the lake, hosting a backyard cookout, or traveling across the state, Logan County law enforcement is urging everyone to make smart choices. Impaired driving is illegal, dangerous, and entirely preventable.
Drive sober, drive safe, and help everyone enjoy a safe and memorable Fourth of July.
