Ohio police boost patrols for Labor Day traffic safety

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Holiday weekend travel is already underway as people head off for Labor Day weekend plans, prompting law enforcement to remind drivers about road safety.

Travelers, like Tyler Kirbabas, were already hitting the roads Thursday to avoid anticipated traffic congestion.

“We’re leaving early to avoid the traffic and then come home on Sunday, try to avoid the traffic on Monday too, so we’ll see, it’s been good so far,” Kirbabas said.

The busy travel weekend means increased police presence on Ohio roads. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Labor Day weekend is the worst holiday for impaired driving.

“That’s why we want to be out there, we want to make sure we have as many troopers as we can on the roads to ensure a safe holiday for everyone,” said Sgt. Brice Nihiser, OSHP public information officer.

In 2024, there were 17 fatal crashes causing 18 deaths over Labor Day weekend, according to OSHP. Fourteen of those crashes were OVI-related, and troopers made 382 impaired driving arrests across the state.

“The biggest message is drive sober. If you’re going to an event, plan for a sober driver, plan for that designated sober driver before you get to the party,” Nihiser said.

The increased patrol presence will be watching for signs of impaired driving such as speed violations, lane violations and missed signals.

“A lot of things that require a divided attention on the part of the driver, that’s what we’re looking for, that’s what we know is associated with impaired driving,” Nihiser said.

Scott Lepka, traveling in a group of 16 relatives, said this weekend represents their last chance for a summer getaway.

“With the kids just being back in school and everything else, we stay pretty busy. So this is our last chance to get away before the holiday season and everything else hits,” Lepka said.