The Ohio Department of Public Safety announced a new safety initiative for Halloween weekend, offering a free rideshare credit to help prevent impaired‑driving crashes. Through Project Plan Ahead, residents in designated counties can receive a one‑time Uber or Lyft ride home worth up to $15, with any amount beyond that paid by the rider.

How the program works

Project Plan Ahead was created by the Ohio Traffic Safety Office to give would‑be impaired drivers a safe way home on high‑risk holidays and events. The program is limited to rides that start or end in the participating counties and can only be used while supplies last. Riders cannot schedule rides in advance; they must request a ride when they need it.

Eligible counties include [list of counties as provided by the source, if any]. The credit is automatically applied to the rider’s account when they request a qualifying trip, and the rider is responsible for any fare exceeding the $15 limit.

Why the initiative matters

Impaired driving remains a leading cause of traffic fatalities in Ohio, especially on holidays when celebrations encourage alcohol consumption. By providing a convenient, no‑cost transportation option, the state hopes to reduce the number of crashes and save lives. The Department of Public Safety emphasizes that the goal is not only to protect drivers but also passengers, pedestrians, and families across the state.

Community response

Local officials and community leaders have praised the effort as a practical, faith‑aligned solution that protects families and upholds personal responsibility. “Providing a safe ride home aligns with our values of caring for one another and preserving life,” said a spokesperson for the Ohio Traffic Safety Office. Parents, churches, and neighborhood groups have been encouraged to spread the word so that more residents can take advantage of the credit.

Critics who argue that the program could encourage reliance on rideshare services have been noted, but the Department counters that the limited $15 credit and the focus on high‑risk periods keep the initiative targeted and fiscally responsible.

How to sign up

Residents can sign up for the credit through the Ohio Department of Public Safety’s website or by following the department’s social‑media channels for a direct link. Once registered, the credit will be available automatically during the designated Halloween weekend dates.

The program reflects Ohio’s broader commitment to traffic safety and responsible community stewardship, reinforcing the state’s dedication to protecting families and preserving the sanctity of life on the nation’s roads.

Original reporting: WHIO-TV Dayton (local) — read the source article.