LIMA, OH (WLIO) - As we approach the Fourth of July holiday, millions of Ohioans are gearing up to hit the road. Pearl Lewandowski gives us a closer look at what you can expect on the highways and how to plan for safe travel.
The Fourth of July is one of the busiest travel times of the year, and Ohio's highways are no exception. According to AAA, nearly 71 million travelers are expected to hit the road nationwide, making it one of the busiest holidays we've ever seen.
"It's something this year. I think people are loving this holiday weather; they're ready to get out and get exploring. We're just seeing more and more people taking that great American road trip," stated Cindy Nelson, AAA Lima.
Nelson suggests that if you will be traveling over the next few days, be sure to give yourself extra time in case of delays, check your vehicle before leaving, and be sure to top off all your fluids.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol will also be out this week, with a heavy focus on impaired drivers, making sure people are wearing seatbelts, and reducing distracted driving.
"We're gonna be out in full force. We're gonna be stopping a lot of vehicles and just trying to make our area safe throughout this whole week," commented Sgt. Chad Recker, Ohio State Highway Patrol.
The patrol's zero-tolerance policy is part of the national "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign, aimed at getting impaired drivers off the roads. Drivers are encouraged to call 677 to report impaired drivers, drug activity, or stranded motorists over this busy holiday.
