Full Notification

Please Celebrate Responsibly: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving

Redwood City, 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), Redwood City Police Department will have additional officers on patrol ready to stop and arrest drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

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, Redwood City 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.

“Never place yourself in a position where you need to ask if you are okay to drive,” Redwood City Police Department Chief of Police Dan Mulholland said. “If you feel even the slightest hint of a buzz, you should not be driving.”

Redwood City 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.

“The dangers of impaired driving are well known,” Chief Mulholland said. “Please be responsible adults; use a designated driver and work together to reach your destination safely.”

Funding for St. Patrick’s Day DUI enforcement is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.