Columbus, Ohio – Ohio State Highway Patrol will be stepping up its efforts to remove impaired drivers from Ohio's roadways this holiday weekend, and motorists are being asked to do their part by following all traffic laws, never driving impaired and always designating a sober driver.  

"Removing impaired drivers from our roadways is always a primary focus," says Ohio State Highway Patrol Superintendent Colonel Paul A. Pridendent. "We take impaired driving seriously and remain dedicated to protecting and serving the motorists on Ohio's roadways."  

AAA projects that the number of Ohioans traveling this holiday weekend will be 8.2 percent higher than last year. With that in mind, the Highway Patrol is urging travelers to plan ahead, allow extra time, follow traffic laws, share the road with other motorists and always wear a safety belt. 

The Labor Day enforcement will begin at midnight on Friday, August 31, and end at 11:59 p.m. on Monday. Motorists are encouraged to dial #677 to report impaired drivers and drug activity. 

During the 2017 Labor Day holiday weekend, there were 22 fatal crashes which killed 24 people. Ten of those fatalities were OVI related and 9 of those fatalities were unbelted. OSHP also made 851 OVI arrests during last year's holiday weekend.