St. Patrick’s Day revelers shouldn’t chance their luck drinking or drugging and driving Monday to celebrate in Riverside County, where multiple law enforcement operations are planned as part of an anti-DUI crackdown.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is slated to deploy deputies for saturation patrols and other traffic duties in a countywide effort to catch drivers who take their St. Patty’s festivities too far and hit the roads while impaired.
“Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day responsibly is about protecting not just yourself, but everyone on the road,” sheriff’s Sgt. Jeremy Bracey said. “Let’s work together to make this holiday memorable for all the right reasons. Make a plan for a safe ride home.”
Targeted operations are planned in Canyon Lake, Coachella, Indian Wells, Jurupa Valley, Lake Elsinore, La Quinta, Norco, Palm Desert, Perris, Rancho Mirage, San Jacinto, Temecula and Wildomar.
Nationally, in 2022 — the latest year for which statistics were available — there were 74 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 reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol,” the agency stated. “Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cannabis products and other drugs may also cause impairment.”
Authorities recommend that anyone who intends to celebrate with alcohol or drugs designate a sober driver, or use a ride-sharing service, to get home.
Municipal police departments countywide, as well as the California Highway Patrol, are also expected to step up traffic enforcement Monday.