San Diego County law enforcement will be out Friday through the early hours of Tuesday looking for intoxicated drivers over the St. Patrick’s Day weekend.
“When you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, be responsible,” said Sheriff Bill Gore. “If you drink, designate a sober driver or call a taxi to take you home. Remember, buzzed driving is drunk driving.”
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department will increase their driving under the influence patrols through early Tuesday morning in all the department’s coverage areas.
It’s part of “Operation Green Mile,” which will bring increased countywide DUI enforcement efforts over the next five days.
Local communities typically experience a spike in drunk driving around St. Patrick’s Day due to its association with alcohol.
Last year over the St. Patrick’s Day weekend, one person died and 23 people were injured in 18 alcohol-related traffic collisions in San Diego County, according to the California Highway Patrol. Nationwide, more than 269 people were killed by drunk drivers on St. Patrick’s Day between 2007 and 2011.
Drivers are urged to report drunk driving by calling 911 to help keep people safe. Callers should be ready to provide an exact location, vehicle make and model and license plate, if possible.
— From a press release by the San Diego County News Center
