(La Porte County, IN) - To help keep roadways safe during this year's St. Patrick’s Day festivities, the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office is teaming up with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to spread the message about the dangers of impaired driving.  

 

“If your plans for the holiday include alcohol, make sure you plan ahead and identify a sober designated driver,” said Captain Derek J. Allen. 

 

St. Patrick’s Day is one of the deadliest times on our roadways.  During the three day St. Patrick’s Day holiday period from 2016-2020, police said 287 lives were lost nationwide in drunk-driving crashes.  

 

In 2020 alone, 37 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes in the U.S. over the St. Patrick’s Day holiday period. 

 

“Those who choose to operate a motor vehicle while intoxicated are a continuing problem on La Porte County roadways.  Don’t be the reason someone — including yourself — doesn’t get home.  Don’t let St. Patrick’s Day become an anniversary of a tragic night,” stated Captain Allen.

 

According to police, before ever heading out, it’s vital to plan ahead and execute these tips.

• Before consuming alcohol, designate a sober driver.

• If it’s your turn to be the designated driver, take your job seriously and DO NOT consume alcohol!

• If you observe an impaired driver on a roadway, call 911.