The Ohio State Highway Patrol has reported 15 fatalities in 15 traffic crashes during the Labor Day reporting period, which began at midnight on Friday, August 30, and ended at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, September 2.
Among the fatal crashes, seven involved individuals who were not wearing their safety belts, even though safety belts were available. Despite Ohio’s safety belt law being a secondary violation, troopers maintained zero tolerance during the holiday period and issued over 2,000 citations for safety belt and child safety seat violations.
The report also highlights that six of the fatal crashes were related to impaired driving. During the reporting period, troopers made 378 arrests for impaired driving and 50 arrests for drug-related offenses. In total, the Patrol responded to 519 crashes, conducted 25,674 traffic contacts, and issued 930 citations for distracted driving. Additionally, they provided assistance to 1,829 motorists.
For a detailed statewide breakdown of enforcement and crashes during the Labor Day period, visit the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s website. Motorists are encouraged to report impaired drivers or drug activity by calling #677.