Don’t count on the luck of the Irish to steer clear of trouble if you decide to drink and drive on St. Patrick’s Day.
That was the message from the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office as it announced plans Friday for 12 hours of increased sobriety patrols on the holiday, starting at 6 p.m. Monday.
Last year, 14 people were jailed on suspicion of DUI in the San Diego area amid the festivities in honor of Ireland’s foremost patron saint.
So far this year, a total of 1,379 motorists have been arrested locally by various local law enforcement agencies for allegedly being intoxicated while behind the wheel, according to sheriff’s officials.
In 2022 – the latest year for which statistics are available – there were 74 fatal alcohol-related traffic accidents nationally on St. Patrick’s Day, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Authorities urge everyone who intends to celebrate with alcohol or drugs to designate a sober driver or use a ride-sharing service when the party ends.
