SACRAMENTO,
Calif. – This St. Patrick’s Day the California Highway Patrol (CHP) 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.
“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. “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 9-1-1. Be prepared to provide the public safety
dispatcher with a description of the vehicle, location, and the direction the
vehicle is traveling.
The
mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and
Security.
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