OSHP Urges Drivers to be Safe on Cinco De Mayo

MUSKINGUM COUNTY, Ohio- As Cinco De Mayo approaches, the Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds drivers the dangers of drinking and driving. 

Holidays involving alcohol tend to lead to more fatal accidents. More troopers will be out on the roads making sure everyone is driving safe. 

“Statistically, we do see crashes happening on these holidays, probably at a greater rate than normal. We’ve handled thousands of OVI crashes over the years. It’s just something that we don’t want to have to do on holidays like Cinco De Mayo.”

Trooper Brice Nihiser advises those celebrating the holiday and choose to drink should plan accordingly. 

“What we do want to discourage is them going from that party atmosphere, to the vehicle and then driving, especially if they’re impaired… Just make sure that if someone calls you for a ride or something like that and you are sober, make an effort to go help them out. We can’t do this on our own. We can’t go out and get every single impaired driver out there,” Nihiser said.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately one-third of all traffic crash fatalities in the United States involve drunk drivers. Alcohol consumers should designated a driver, or utilize ridesharing companies such as Uber and Lyft to prevent drunk-driving crashes.