New York drivers will see increased patrols and sobriety checkpoints on roadways statewide as part of a St. Patrick’s Day crackdown on impaired driving.
Kathy Hochul announced the annual statewide enforcement campaign will run from March 9 through March 17, with New York State Police and local law enforcement increasing patrols to target drunk, drugged and reckless driving.
“As Governor, there is no greater commitment than my promise to make our state safer for all, and I am grateful to our law enforcement partners for their commitment to keep New Yorkers safe,” Hochul said in a statement. “Impaired driving is completely preventable, especially in the age of ride share services, taxis and technology such as the ‘Have a Plan’ app. We have zero tolerance for drunk, drugged or reckless driving.”
The enforcement effort is funded by the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee and will include sobriety checkpoints and increased roving patrols focused on speeding, distracted driving and violations of the state’s Move Over Law.
Officers will also conduct compliance checks at retail establishments to prevent underage alcohol sales.
“Impaired driving can destroy your life,” said Mark J. F. Schroeder, commissioner of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. “Not only are you putting yourself and others on the roadways in danger, you are also risking a felony arrest, the loss of your driver’s license and costly legal fees.”
During last year’s St. Patrick’s Day enforcement period, officers statewide arrested 1,224 people for driving while intoxicated. Authorities also issued 10,314 speeding tickets and more than 55,000 total traffic tickets.
Law enforcement officials are urging drivers celebrating St. Patrick’s Day to plan ahead by designating a sober driver, using ride-sharing services or public transportation, or arranging a ride home before drinking.
The state’s “Have a Plan” mobile app can also help users find taxi services, create a designated driver list and report suspected impaired drivers.
