MEDIA RELEASE__Each year, families across Ohio are forever changed by individuals who decide to drive impaired. To ensure everyone makes it home to their loved ones safely, the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) will be conducting statewide OVI checkpoints next week.

“The goal of these statewide checkpoints is to deter and intercept impaired drivers, ensuring the safety of all motorists on Ohio’s roadways,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “By working alongside our local and state partners, we are sending a clear message that impaired driving will not be tolerated.”

Through these checkpoints, taking place over a three-day period from May 14-16, troopers will be working to keep our roads clear of impaired drivers and prevent tragedies before they can occur.

When someone decides to drive impaired, the devastating reality is that this choice not only impacts them, but it can change the lives of others as well. That truth is felt deeply by Thomas Tomasheski, of Grafton, who lost a daughter-in-law and a grandson after they were hit head-on by an impaired driver in June 2011. Tomasheski’s son, who was driving the vehicle when the crash occurred, and granddaughter were hospitalized for several months.

Tomasheski was not involved in the crash, but he has lived with the results of one person’s poor decision for nearly 15 years. “I have a life sentence,” said Tomasheski. “There is never a day that goes by without my mourning the loss of my family… never.”

Since the crash, Tomasheski has been vocal on the dangers of driving impaired. His goal is to prevent someone else from experiencing what he and his family have gone through. “If together we stop one person from drinking and driving, [that’s] time well spent,” said Tomasheski.

Patrol data shows that impaired driving remains a leading factor in fatal and serious injury crashes on Ohio roadways. While troopers will be focusing on removing impaired drivers from the road, the public can also protect themselves and others by designating a sober driver, using a rideshare service, practicing defensive driving and never driving impaired.

Operational support for the statewide checkpoints will be provided by more than 100 local law enforcement agencies across the state. Additionally, the Ohio Department of Transportation will be providing assistance with traffic control and signage.

While not directly participating in the Patrol’s statewide OVI checkpoints, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources will have heightened OVI enforcement on water and land over the three-day period.

If you see an impaired or reckless driver on the road, call #677 to be connected directly to the nearest Ohio State Highway Patrol post. Your call could save a life.