OSHP: Impaired driving not tolerated
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STEUBENVILLE -- The commander of the local post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol said drunk drivers once were found on roads mostly at night, but that's something that's changed, particularly during the holiday season.
"We're seeing them at all times of the day-- morning, noon and night," said Lt. Robert Bodo, who's reminding those planning to celebrate the holidays with alcohol to use good judgment and let others drive them.
"We just want to remind people, if they're out having a good time, please designate a driver or call for a ride. Just don't get behind the wheel if they've been drinking," he said.
Bodo said federal funding issued through the Ohio Traffic Safety Office will support more patrols by the highway patrol during the holiday season in an effort to deter impaired driving.
He said too often those who have been drinking are under the false impression they are capable of safely handling a vehicle.
He said many don't realize alcohol impacts their ability to respond quickly when something unexpected occurs.
He added it also hinders their ability to multi-task, a skill needed for driving and one measured through the highway patrol's field sobriety tests.
Bodo said it's not unusual for those involved in accidents while under the influence of alcohol to comment they had a small amount to drink.
"Some people say they had only a few drinks. They believed they were fine to drive," he said.
Bodo said many accidents involving drunk driving result in deaths or serious injuries, not a way anyone wants to remember the holidays.
Col. Richard S. Fambro, superintendent of the highway patrol, said since 2015, there have been 81,006 crashes linked to impaired driving on Ohio roads, causing 2,691 deaths and injuries to 49,190 others.
Bodo said last December there were six DUI-related crashes, most involving injuries.
He said the number of local DUI arrests has dropped in recent months, probably because the pandemic has resulted in many people staying home.
But he said the number for this year has reached 171, including several in which children were passengers. He noted such drivers also face a charge of child endangerment.
Bodo said being prosecuted for driving under the influence also can be expensive, with a potential of up to $3,000 in fines, court costs and attorney's fees for those convicted.
But he hopes concern for the safety of others will be enough motive to celebrate responsibly.
"Please don't risk your life or the lives of others by getting behind the wheel impaired this holiday season. You can save lives and ensure our roads are safe when you designate a sober driver," Bodo advised.