Crime & Safety

WATCH: Authorities on the Lookout for Drunk Drivers Thanksgiving Eve

It's one of the biggest drinking days of the year — but authorities are urging people to celebrate responsibly.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol, anticipating heavier than usual traffic over the Thanksgiving weekend, released a video that could dampen some enthusiasm for holiday spirits.

The eight-minute video shows compelling footage from actual traffic stops.

Last Thanksgiving weekend, 10 people were killed on Ohio's roadways, with 30 percent of those crashes due to impairment. 

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Each year between Thanksgiving and New Year's, nearly 39 people die in crashes, the Patrol says.

Of the 42.5 million Americans who will travel over the coming holiday weekend, about 90 percent will be driving, according to AAA.

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Patrol officials say motorists should schedule plenty of time for road trips, so as not to speed. Safety should be the top priority, not getting there in record time.

“We all share the responsibility of contributing to a safe holiday on Ohio roadways by obeying all traffic laws and never driving impaired,” Colonel John Born, Patrol superintendent, said in a media release.

Troopers ask motorists to contact the Patrol by calling 1-877-7-PATROL (1-877-772-8765) to report dangerous or impaired drivers.

“As a member of the motoring public, you can help save lives by reporting unsafe and aggressive drivers to law enforcement,” Born said in the release.


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