Full Notification

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 14, 2019
CONTACT:
Sergeant Jeremy Walsh
Traffic Division
707-778-4596
 

Petaluma, Calif. — St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated by millions across the country, often culminating in parties where drinking is involved. Sadly, this leads to tragedies on our roadways because of drivers who choose to leave parties impaired.

This St. Patrick’s Day (March 17), Petaluma Police Department Officers will be conducting high visibility patrols ready to stop and arrest drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Officers will be diligently monitoring vehicle traffic looking for indicators of impaired driving.

According to data from the California Highway Patrol (CHP), one person was killed and 48 others were injured in DUI crashes on St. Patrick’s Day last year. In 2017, 59 people were killed nationwide in drunk-driving crashes over the St. Patrick’s Day holiday (March 16-March 18), accounting for 37 percent of all traffic deaths.

Due to St. Patrick’s Day becoming a dangerous holiday on our roads, The Petaluma Police Department encourages everyone to plan ahead and use a designated sober driver, ride-share or public transportation. Even one drink can be one too many.

“Don’t even put yourself in a position where you need to ask whether you are okay to drive,” Petaluma Police Department Special Operations Lieutenant Brian Miller said. “If you feel the slightest hint of a buzz, you should not be driving.”

The Petaluma Police Department also wants to remind everyone that a “DUI Doesn’t Just Mean Booze.” Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications and marijuana can all be impairing, especially in combination with alcohol or other drugs.

“We all know the dangers about driving impaired,” Petaluma Police Department Lieutenant Brian Miller said. “Let’s all be responsible adults and help each other get where we need to go safely.”