Ohio State Highway Patrol Reports 18 Fatal Crashes During July Fourth Holiday Period
COLUMBUS — The Ohio State Highway Patrol is reporting that 18 people lost their lives in 18 traffic crashes during the July Fourth holiday reporting period.
The reporting period began at midnight on Thursday, July 2, and ended at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, July 5.
According to preliminary Patrol statistics, safety belts were available in eight of the fatal crashes. Of those crashes, three people were unbelted, accounting for 38%.
Motorcycle crashes also played a role in the holiday statistics. The Patrol reported five fatal crashes involving motorcycles. In three of those crashes, the riders were not wearing helmets, accounting for 60%.
Throughout the holiday reporting period, troopers investigated 575 crashes across the state. Troopers also issued 1,722 distracted driving citations, cited 2,195 drivers for safety belt violations and removed 387 impaired drivers from Ohio roadways.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to remind motorists to drive responsibly, buckle up, avoid distractions and never drive impaired.
Motorists are encouraged to call #677 to report impaired or reckless drivers, as well as drug activity.
