CHP: Officers On High-Alert For Drunken Drivers This St. Patrick's Day Weekend

Published on March 16, 2017 10:45 AM in Safe Driving

St. Patrick's Day carries a reputation as a drinking holiday, and law enforcement agencies are on high alert as the celebration falls on a Friday this year.

From coast to coast, highway patrols and safety officials are urging people to avoid impaired driving at all costs.

"We want everyone to enjoy the festivities and have a good time, but to do so responsibly," said Joe Farrow, commissioner of the California Highway Patrol. "Remember to designate a sober driver before the party starts or make arrangements for a taxi or ride-sharing service."

The CHP arrested 145 people on suspicion of intoxicated driving on St. Patrick's Day last year. DUI collisions claimed three lives and injured nearly 60 people across California during 2016's St. Patrick's Day holiday.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports someone in the United States dies in an alcohol-related vehicle collision every 53 minutes. The agency estimates the total costs associated these deaths and damages contribute to a cost of $52 billion per year, NHTSA reports.

The CHP recommends these steps to avoid impaired driving:

Designate a sober driver or have alternate transportation before you go out to drink.
If you are hosting a party, serve plenty of food and non-alcoholic beverages.
If hosting, cut off alcohol a few hours before the end of the party.
If you see a suspected impaired driver, call 9-1-1. Your phone call may save someone’s life.
If you see a friend who is too drunk to drive, take their keys and call them a cab or ride-share, or give them a ride home.