YOUR AD HERE »

CHP urges drivers to stay sober on St. Patrick’s Day

This St. Patrick’s Day, the California Highway Patrol reminds drivers to avoid taking chances and make the right decision to have a sober ride home if their plans include alcohol.

Unfortunately, the party often ends with risky drunk drivers taking to the streets and endangering countless lives, a news release states.

“If you plan on drinking alcohol on St. Patrick’s Day, do not rely on luck and designate a sober driver, use a rideshare service, public transit or a taxi to ensure you reach your destination safely,” CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray said in the release. “Not having a plan in place if your celebration includes the use of alcohol can result in a crash, jail time, injuries, or even death.”



Last year on St. Patrick’s Day, CHP officers made 211 arrests for driving under the influence (DUI). Tragically, that same day, three people died, and 76 people were injured statewide as a result of DUI crashes.

Always remember to buckle up, avoid distractions while driving, and designate a sober driver if your St. Patrick’s Day celebration includes alcohol. The financial impact of a DUI can be sobering as attorney fees, fines, court costs, lost time at work, higher insurance rates, and car repairs can reach $15,000 or more in California.



The CHP joins with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in reminding motorists that “Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving.”

To help keep the roads safe, the CHP encourages the public to report impaired drivers by calling 911. Be prepared to provide the public safety dispatcher with a description of the vehicle, location, and the direction the vehicle is traveling.

Source: California Highway Patrol


Support Local Journalism

 

Support Local Journalism

Readers around Lake Tahoe, Truckee, and beyond make the Sierra Sun's work possible. Your financial contribution supports our efforts to deliver quality, locally relevant journalism.

Now more than ever, your support is critical to help us keep our community informed about the evolving coronavirus pandemic and the impact it is having locally. Every contribution, however large or small, will make a difference.

Your donation will help us continue to cover COVID-19 and our other vital local news.


Start a dialogue, stay on topic and be civil.
If you don't follow the rules, your comment may be deleted.

User Legend: iconModerator iconTrusted User