Anyone planning on celebrating St. Patrick’s Day Tuesday with festive brews and cocktails should plan ahead and arrange transportation in advance as law enforcement throughout Los Angeles and Orange counties will increase patrols to nab people driving under the influence.
The Los Angeles Police Department plans to have saturation patrols beginning Tuesday afternoon in a number of areas, officials said.
The California Highway Patrol and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department will also have beefed-up patrols with officers on the lookout for impaired drivers.
Burbank police plan to have extra officers on patrol between 6 p.m. Tuesday and 2 a.m. Wednesday looking for motorists suspected of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Torrance planned additional officers to patrol from 5 p.m. to midnight.
Officials reminded the public that people who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including marijuana and prescription drugs, put everyone’s lives in danger.
An impaired driving arrest and conviction can cost more than $15,000 in legal and court fees, according to the sheriff’s office.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Saint Patrick’s Day is one of the deadliest times on U.S. roads, representing over 30% of all traffic fatalities.
Law enforcement officers suggest using a ride-share service or public transportation if a designated driver isn’t available.