Troopers are urging residents to plan ahead for Monday night as more drivers head out on the roads after drinking. Along with area police departments, the Ohio State Highway Patrol is cracking down on impaired driving for New Year's.

Reports find that New Year's Eve is also the most dangerous time for drunk drivers.

"We usually have extra patrols out. We're looking for DUI drivers, impaired drivers, and we're enforcing the laws," said Trooper Greg Mamula, with OSHP Wintersville Post. He said they look for "erratic driving, slow speed, higher speeds, anything out of the ordinary."


Mamula already handled several crashes Monday, unrelated to impaired driving. Add on people behind the wheel after drinking and troopers say roadways are a danger zone.

Over the years, OVI offenses have gone up in Ohio. In the Ohio Valley, troopers pulled over dozens of impaired drivers during last year's New Year's holiday period.

"We have more people on the road just to keep everyone safe. For everyone that wants to go out and have a good time, we're just trying to take impaired drivers off the road, so everybody can have a safe New Year," said Mamula.

Recent snowfall could make for some icy roads in areas. Troopers advised people to plan ahead if plans include drinking and stressed having a designated driver.

Troopers said to call #677 to report any suspected impaired driving.