Lakewood Police on the Lookout for Drunk Drivers

Thinking about drinking and driving this holiday weekend?

"Don't," said Sgt. Steve Spaetzel of the Lakewood Police Department.

The Fourth of July weekend is traditionally a dangerous time on Ohio roads, particularly for impaired driving — so law enforcement agencies are warning motorists to abstain from drinking and driving.

"Get a designated driver or take a cab," Spaetzel said. "This is probably our busiest weekend for (cracking down on) drinking and driving." 

Other options include walking, planning ahead or staying home.

Although there won't be increased road patrols, Spaetzel said officers will have their attention turned toward the streets.

"We aren't doing anything out of the ordinary — but we'll be out there," he said.

Lakewood's not the only law enforcement organization targeting drunk drivers. 

Last year, the Ohio Highway Patrol arrested 611 people for drunken driving during the holiday weekend. 

“Driving impaired or riding with someone who is impaired is not worth the risk. The consequences are serious and real,” said Col. John Born, superintendent of the Ohio Highway Patrol.

“Not only do you risk killing yourself or someone else, but the trauma and financial costs of a crash or an arrest for driving while impaired can be really significant.”