CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — You don't have to watch traffic long to see people speeding, crossing lanes and driving distracted.
“When something like this occurs, we definitely want to step in front of it,” said Lt. Tim Karwatske, Ohio State Highway Patrol Chillicothe Post.
Since the first of the year, six people have died in crashes in Ross and Pike County. During this same time last year, there was only one fatal crash in the area.
“Historically we don't see that uptick in fatal crashes,” said Lt. Karwatske.
Pike County had five fatal crashes for all of last year. Ross County had 14.
“Pay attention to what you are doing, pay attention to the road. Maybe some of the incidents can be overted,” Lt. Karwatske said.
Speed was a factor in some of the fatal crashes, that's why you'll see more troopers out here paying attention to your speed, trying to prevent another tragedy.
“it's made up of a combination of things. There are several things, speeding, we have alcohol and drug involved. Certainly not wearing seat belts is involved in that,” Lt. Karwatske said.
The Chillicothe post for OSHP, along with the sheriff's offices and police departments, will be working together to make sure drivers get that reminder of how dangerous the roads can be if you aren't obeying they laws.