If you have any plans that involve alcoholic beverages for the upcoming observance of St. Patrick’s Day, the New York State Police warns not to test your luck.
With several parades, bar crawls and other festivities planned over the coming days ahead, Troopers are partnering with local law enforcement to crack down on drunk or impaired drivers.
The campaign this year runs through St. Patrick’s Day, which is Tuesday, March 17.
“Driving is a privilege, not a right. The goal is to ensure that people think twice before drinking and getting behind the wheel,” said New York State Police Superintendent, Steven G. James.
The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC) funds this annual mobilization.
In addition to DWI checkpoints, law enforcement officers will increase roving patrols during the enforcement period to watch for speeding and distracted drivers and those violating the state’s ‘Move Over Law.’ New York State Police also will conduct checks at retail establishments to target underage drinking and unlawful sales to minors during the campaign.
During last year’s St. Patrick’s Day impaired driving enforcement operation, officers statewide arrested 1,224 people for DWI, issued 10,314 tickets for speeding and issued 55,661 tickets in total.
The New York State Police and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC) asks you to commit to following these easy steps, so you can enjoy a safe holiday without jeopardizing lives on the road:
Before the festivities begin, plan a way to safely get home at the end of the night.
Before you start drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home.
If you’re impaired, use a taxi or ridesharing service, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely.
Walking impaired can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Designate a sober friend to walk you home.
If you see a drunk driver on the road, call local law enforcement. You could save a life. The GTSC and the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation’s “Have a Plan” mobile app, is available for Apple and Android smartphones. The app enables New Yorkers to locate and call a taxi service and program a designated driver list. It also provides information on DWI laws and penalties, and a way to report a suspected impaired driver.
NYSP image.
