Sixteen individuals lost their lives in various car accidents across the state over the Fourth of July weekend. The Ohio State Highway Patrol documented 15 fatal traffic incidents during the reporting period, spanning from July 3 to July 7. Moreover, a total of 648 crashes were reported statewide during this period.
Among the fatalities, seven individuals were not wearing seat belts. Throughout the holiday reporting period, troopers issued nearly 3,000 citations for safety belt and child safety seat violations.
Although Ohio’s safety belt law remains a secondary offense, troopers maintained a strict stance during the holiday reporting period. They exercised zero tolerance when encountering motorists stopped for other infractions who were not buckled up.
Additionally, troopers made 438 arrests for impaired driving and 72 for drug-related charges during the reporting period. Furthermore, they issued 1,368 citations for distracted driving.
Motorists are encouraged to dial #677 to report impaired drivers or drug-related activities.
