JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ohio — As Independence Day travel ramps up, the Ohio State Highway Patrol is encouraging motorists to make safety a priority during one of the busiest weekends of the year.
Troopers say the Fourth of July holiday falls during what is commonly known as the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer,” the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when crashes involving teen drivers and overall traffic fatalities typically increase.
To help keep roads safe, the patrol will have additional troopers on duty throughout the holiday weekend, with increased enforcement focused on impaired driving, distracted driving and seat belt compliance.
Officials are urging anyone planning to consume alcohol to arrange for a designated driver or use alternative transportation rather than getting behind the wheel.
Troopers also remind drivers to eliminate distractions, obey posted speed limits, buckle up and remain alert as heavier-than-normal traffic is expected across Ohio highways.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol says its goal is to help everyone enjoy the holiday while ensuring travelers arrive safely at their destinations.
