St. Patrick’s Day is approaching and many are preparing to celebrate. History has shown, all too often, the celebration can turn deadly because of impaired driving. This year, if you’ll be drinking alcohol, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office has some advice for you: “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over!”
“The Lake County Sheriff’s Office will be on patrol this St. Patrick’s Day, to ensure the safety of those traveling on the roadways,” said Sheriff Mark C Curran Jr. “Don’t drink and drive, and don’t let your friends do it either! Help us make ‘Zero Fatalities a Reality’ in Illinois.”
In addition to seeking alcohol and drug-impaired drivers, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office will be increasing seat belt enforcement, particularly at night when seat belt usage rates are lowest.
Undersheriff Ray Rose said, “If you choose to drink, designate a sober, reliable driver to get you home safely from the party. If you’re planning on driving, don’t drink! Your life and the lives of others could depend on it.”
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office reminds drivers designating a sober driver and not letting friends drive drunk are just two simple steps to help avoid a tragic crash or an arrest for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) of drugs and/or alcohol.
Other important tips:
If you are hosting a St. Patrick’s Day party:
- Remember, you can be held liable and prosecuted if someone you serve is involved in an impaired driving crash.
- Make sure all guests designate a sober driver in advance or help arrange ride-sharing with other sober drivers.
- Serve plenty of food and include non-alcoholic beverages at the party.
- Keep phone numbers for local cab companies handy, and take the keys away from anyone who is thinking of driving drunk.
If you are attending a St. Patrick’s Day party:
- Designate a sober driver before the party begins and give that person your keys.
- If you do not have a designated driver, ask a sober friend for a ride home, call a cab, sober friend or family member to pick you up or just stay where you are and sleep it off until you are sober.
- Always buckle up.
Pedestrians are at risk, too. If you are walking, keep an eye out for cars. Designated drivers: Be alert for impaired walkers who may not obey street signs.
The St. Patrick’s Day “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” Crackdown is funded by federal traffic safety funds from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and is administered through the Illinois Department of Transportation.