Ohio officials urge caution for Labor Day weekend travel

 Law enforcement and transportation agencies across Ohio are focusing on impaired driving prevention as motorists get on the road for the Labor Day weekend.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ohio Traffic Safety Office, and the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission are all encouraging drivers to prioritize safety during the holiday travel period, which runs ,through 11:59 p.m. Monday, Sept. 1.

Col. Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent, advised travelers to designate a sober driver, ensure all occupants wear seat belts and avoid distractions. Last year's Labor Day weekend in Ohio saw 17 fatal crashes that resulted in 18 deaths. Fourteen of those crashes were linked to impaired driving.

Troopers made 382 arrests for impaired driving and issued 932 citations for distracted driving during the 2024 reporting period.

Emily Davidson, Director of the Ohio Traffic Safety Office, said every impaired driving crash is preventable. High-visibility enforcement, including increased patrols and sobriety checkpoints, will be used.

The Ohio Turnpike expects approximately 700,000 vehicle transactions over the weekend. Construction in work zones will be limited to two lanes in both eastbound and westbound directions to help with traffic flow.

Ferzan Ahmed, executive director of the turnpike commission, reminded motorists to avoid behaviors such as speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving and failing to buckle up.

Transportation data provider INRIX predicts the busiest travel times will be in the afternoon and early evening. The company suggests traveling before lunchtime, especially on Saturday, to avoid congestion.

 Gas prices are expected to remain below last year's national average of $3.33 per gallon, according to AAA. Motorists can report impaired or dangerous drivers by calling #677.