CHP: Be safe this St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day is coming up Wednesday, and a lot of people will be celebrating. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention encourages people to celebrate the holiday in their own homes while COVID-19 regulations are in effect, some might be hosting functions elsewhere.

Regardless, the California Highway Patrol will be on high alert for impaired drivers, which include those who have not only consumed alcohol but also cannabis, prescription medications and illegal narcotics.

“The CHP is committed to making California’s roadways safe for all who use them.” CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray said in a statement. “Remember to buckle up, slow down, don’t drive distracted, and never drive impaired. If you chose to celebrate, please do so responsibly by designating a sober driver or making other arrangements to get home safe.”

According to a CHP news release, 327 alcoholrelated fatal crashes were reported on St. Patrick’s Day last year, per National Highway Transportation Safety Administration data. In California alone, the CHP made 67 arrests for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol on St. Patrick’s Day, and approximately 31 people were injured from drug or alcohol-related crashes.

The CHP has joined with the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) is advising drivers to be safe this holiday.

“Think of your safety and that of others before deciding whether it is safe for you to drive,” OTS Director Barbara Rooney said in a statement. “We urge all drivers to make getting home safely part of your celebratory plans.”

If anyone suspects a driver is impaired, they are advised to call 911 and provide the vehicle’s description, location, license plate number and direction of travel, CHP officials wrote.

The Reporter