OSHP Urges Drivers to Plan Sober Rides as Holiday Impaired-Driving Crashes Rise

As families gather and winter events ramp up, the Ohio State Highway Patrol is warning drivers about the increased dangers of impaired driving during the holiday season.

“As we gather with loved ones for winter celebrations, it’s important to remember that impaired driving has no place on Ohio’s roads,” Governor Mike DeWine said. “I encourage every driver to make a plan for a sober ride home.”

December has historically been one of the deadliest months on Ohio roadways due to a spike in alcohol- and drug-related crashes. In response, troopers are increasing enforcement efforts and maintaining a zero-tolerance stance toward operating a vehicle while impaired.

Since 2020, Ohio has recorded 69,061 impairment-related crashes, resulting in 3,896 deaths — about 54% of all traffic fatalities during that period.

Patrol leaders say the data makes the message clear: impaired driving continues to be a major cause of serious and fatal crashes around the holidays. Drivers are urged to take responsibility by:

• Designating a sober driver: Make the plan before celebrations begin, and if plans change, call a friend or rideshare.

• Understanding all forms of impairment: Troopers are trained to detect impairment from alcohol, marijuana and other drugs that affect driving ability.

• Knowing the consequences: An OVI conviction can lead to jail time, heavy fines and license suspension — consequences far less severe than taking a life in a crash.

“Every driver needs to make the conscious choice to promote roadway safety,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “That means designating a sober driver before the first drink, understanding that impairment isn’t just limited to alcohol and realizing the consequences of driving impaired.”

Patrol statistics show troopers have issued nearly 95,000 OVI-related citations since 2020, with almost one-quarter involving marijuana or other drug impairment.

Motorists are encouraged to help keep roads safe by reporting suspected impaired driving, drug activity or reckless operation by calling #677.