Ohio Turnpike And OSHP Urge Safe Driving Over Fourth Of July Weekend

The Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission and the Ohio State Highway Patrol are reminding motorists to practice safe driving habits over the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

Officials say drivers should avoid speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving, drowsy driving, and failing to wear a seat belt.

Ohio Turnpike Executive Director Ferzan Ahmed says the Independence Day travel weekend also marks America’s 250th Anniversary, making safety even more important as families travel across the state.

To help with holiday traffic, construction in work zones across the Ohio Turnpike is being limited through Monday at sunrise. Two lanes of traffic in both the eastbound and westbound directions will remain open in work zones.

Turnpike officials say speeding in work zones is a primary cause of crashes. Drivers are asked to maintain a safe following distance, be prepared to slow down or stop, obey posted speed limits, and pay close attention to signs.

The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is known as the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer, when roadways are statistically more dangerous for crashes nationwide.

Ohio State Highway Patrol Sergeant Ryan Purpura says drivers should stay focused, avoid distractions, obey posted speed limits, and always buckle up.

Motorists are encouraged to safely call #677 to report impaired or reckless drivers, or stranded motorists.