Statewide crackdown on impaired driving in effect this week
ALBANY, N.Y. » State and local law enforcement agencies across New York will be stepping up patrols to crack down on impaired driving for St. Patrick’s Day.
The enforcement campaign will run through Sunday, March 21. This special traffic enforcement detail is designed to reduce alcohol and drug-related traffic crashes.
“As New Yorkers celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, I urge them to do so safely and responsibly,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo stated.
“There is zero tolerance for impaired driving in New York. It is grossly reckless on the part of the driver, and it puts all those on the road in danger. Impaired drivers will be caught and held accountable, so plan for a safe ride home,” Cuomo explained.
During the 2020 St. Patrick’s Day campaign, which occurred March 13 through March 18, law enforcement throughout the state issued 77,444 tickets for vehicle and traffic law violations, including 1,944 arrests for DWI.
These STOP-DWI enforcement campaigns occur throughout the year. During the recent Super Bowl campaign, law enforcement agencies throughout the state issued 26,127 tickets for vehicle and traffic law violations and made 846 arrests for DWI.
“As you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, don’t count on the luck of the Irish to get you home safely. The consequences of impaired driving can be both costly and deadly, so have a plan in place beforehand. I also thank all of New York’s law enforcement for their participation in this important crackdown to keep our roads safe,” New York DMV Commissioner and GTSC Chair Mark J.F. Schroeder said.
“Through education and enforcement, the New York State Police work to keep impaired drivers off the road and prevent tragedies. During this campaign, we remind people of the dangers of driving impaired. Impaired drivers cause needless deaths and injuries. This weekend, if you choose to celebrate, have a plan. Together, we can keep New York State’s roads among the safest in the nation,” State Police Acting Superintendent Kevin P. Bruen remarked.
“Chiefs of Police across the state are reminding motorists to plan ahead to use alternate means of transportation if consuming alcohol will be part of your St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Bad decisions can cause tragic consequences! Help us keep our roadways safe, please drive sober,” Chief of Ilion PD and President of the New York State Association of Chiefs of Police Timothy Parisi noted.
“St. Patrick’s Day celebrations may be a little different this year but one thing has not changed driving drunk or drugged can be deadly. Deputies will be on patrol trying to keep all travelers safe by removing impaired drivers from the road. The Sheriffs of New York State want everyone to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day and the start of Spring but do so with a plan to not drive impaired,” Washington County Sheriff and President of the NYS Sheriffs’ Association Jeffrey Murphy explained.
“We hope everyone enjoys the holiday, but please make sure you have a plan to get home safely. Download STOP-DWI New York’s Have a Plan mobile app. This app enables users to locate and call a car service for a ride home, program a designated driver list, provide information on DWI laws and penalties and even report a suspected impaired driver. The mission of STOP-DWI New York is to reduce the number of persons killed or injured in alcohol and or other drug-related traffic crashes. Do your part and celebrate responsibly!” New York State STOP-DWI Foundation Chairman and Niagara County STOP-DWI Coordinator Reginald Crowley added.