Law enforcement will be cracking down on impaired drivers this weekend as part of the St. Patrick’s Day California Avoid DUI Task Force Enforcement Campaign.
Last year’s St. Patrick’s Day saw California Highway Patrol officers make more than 430 arrests for DUI statewide, a 28 percent increase from 2012.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 269 people have been killed nationwide in drunk driving collisions during the St. Patrick’s Days from 2007 to 2011.
CHP, NHTSA and the Office of Traffic Safety encourage motorists to plan ahead and designate a sober driver, or arrange for a safe and sober ride home.
“Enjoy your time celebrating St. Patrick’s Day this year, just be smart about what you do when the celebration is over,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “Whether you are with your friends at a local pub or enjoying a celebratory event, designate a sober driver ahead of time, or call a taxi to make sure you get home safely.”
AAA will also be offering their “Tipsy Tow” from 6:00 p.m. on Monday to 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday. You don’t have to be a AAA member, just call 1-800-222-4357 and tell the operator, “I need a tipsy tow” for a free tow up to 10 miles.
If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to call 9-1-1.
