Motorists inclined to imbibe wine, spirits, green beer and other beverages in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day should not chance their luck drinking and driving Sunday.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is slated to deploy deputies for saturation patrols and other traffic duties as part of a countywide effort to catch drivers who take their St. Patty’s Day celebrations too far and hit the roads while impaired.
“St. Patrick’s Day is a time for celebration, but it’s important to celebrate responsibly,” Sgt. Marcos Acosta said. “Designating a sober driver before the festivities begin can save lives. It’s a simple way to make sure everyone traveling on our roads gets home safely.”
Targeted operations are planned in Indian Wells, Moreno Valley, Palm Desert, Perris, Rancho Mirage and San Jacinto.
Nationally, in 2021, there were 47 fatal alcohol-related wrecks during the Irish-inspired festivities, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The California Office of Traffic Safety is providing funding to support extra and overtime patrols on St. Patrick’s Day.
“The sheriff’s department wants to warn the community that alcohol is not the only substance that can cause impairment,” the agency stated. “Marijuana, prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may also impair.”
Municipal police departments countywide, as well as the California Highway Patrol, will also be stepping up traffic enforcement during the holiday.