Memorial Day Stats From Ohio State Highway Patrol

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – Every year, Memorial Day Day weekend results in a high number of travelers between Friday through Monday.

In 2018, the Ohio State Highway Patrol saw 18 fatalities within that time frame for the entire state. This year, they have seen the fewest number of fatalities in four years. Only 12 fatalities, and Ohio State Highway Patrol Lieutenant, Matt Boyd said there were none in the district area.

“Fortunately it’s a lower number. Of course 12 is still too many, we’re always driving towards zero people being killed, but the more people we can keep alive obviously the better,” he said.

Boyd also mentioned that 9 of the 66 crashes in the post area were injury crashes. They made more than 600 enforcement stops, and wrote more than 100 seat belt citations. He said the biggest issue the Patrol saw during the holiday weekend was speeding. Drivers are typically in a rush to arrive at their destination, and it’s recommended people leave enough time and take the precautions to safely do so.

“It’s better to be 15 minutes or half an hour later getting somewhere than you thought you were going to be than to get involved in a crash. We always say that no one ever plans on being involved in a crash obviously, so you need to take all the precautions, obey the law, and drive defensively,” said Boyd.

Ohio State Highway Patrol is also encouraging drivers to always wear their seat belts, this all part of their Click it or Ticket campaign that lasts until June 2nd.