COLUMBUS — The Ohio State Highway Patrol is urging drivers to be safe over the Labor Day weekend.

Troopers will focus their enforcement efforts this weekend on removing impaired motorists from the roads to help keep everyone safe while traveling.

“It is important everyone celebrates the Labor Day weekend responsibly,” Patrol superintendent Col. Charles Jones said in a statement. “That means designating a sober driver before you go out, ensuring all occupants are wearing their safety belt and putting all distractions away before you drive.”

Last year the Labor Day weekend saw 17 fatal crashes statewide, resulting in 18 deaths, the patrol said in a news release. Fourteen of those crashes involved alcohol and/or drugs, and in nine cases, motorists were not wearing seat belts.

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