New York State will increase police patrols and traffic enforcement across the state for St. Patrick’s Day, according to an announcement from Governor Kathy Hochul. The annual campaign is aimed at reducing drunk, impaired, and reckless driving during the holiday period. The enhanced enforcement will begin on Monday, March 9, and continue through Tuesday, March 17.
Governor Hochul stated, “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. 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 — all of which make our streets less safe — and we will be relentless in the pursuit of removing irresponsible and dangerous drivers from our roadways.”
Mark J.F. Schroeder, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and Chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC), added: “Impaired driving can destroy your life. 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. Having a plan for a safe ride saves lives. It’s simple, designate a sober driver to get home.”
State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said law enforcement will be vigilant throughout St. Patrick’s Day: “State Police and local law enforcement will be vigilant as always, intercepting drunk drivers throughout the state this St. Patrick’s Day. Driving is a privilege, not a right. The goal is to ensure that people think twice before drinking and getting behind the wheel. We will continue to work with the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee to keep New York’s roads the safest in the nation by educating and reminding people to plan ahead.”
The GTSC funds this statewide effort each year. Along with DWI checkpoints, officers will increase roving patrols looking for speeding drivers, distracted drivers, and those violating New York’s ‘Move Over Law.’ State Police also plan checks at retail locations targeting underage drinking and illegal sales to minors.
During last year’s St. Patrick’s Day campaign in New York State, police arrested 1,224 individuals for DWI offenses and issued more than 10,000 tickets for speeding among over 55,000 total tickets.
Ulster County Sheriff Juan Figueroa commented: “As St. Patrick’s Day approaches it is a great time to make plans with family and friends. Drive safe and sober and you may have the luck of the Irish. Drive impaired or aggressively and you won’t find a pot of gold, instead you’ll find law enforcement ready to ticket and arrest you. The Sheriffs of New York State want everyone to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day and the start of Spring but with a plan to not drive impaired.”
According to national data cited by officials, nearly 12,000 people die each year in alcohol-related crashes across the United States—about one person every 45 minutes.
Paul Oliva, President of the New York State Association of Chiefs of Police and Chief of Mount Pleasant Police Department said: “Everyone likes to look over a four-leaf clover on St. Patrick’s Day, but don’t press your luck. Please have a travel plan when celebrating the day. Drive sober, slow down, and stay safe.”
Authorities remind that impaired driving can lead not only to jail time but also loss of license or increased insurance rates; fines can reach up to $10,000.
Officials recommend several steps for safety during holiday celebrations:
– Plan ahead for transportation before festivities begin.
– Designate a sober driver prior to drinking.
– Use taxis or rideshare services if needed.
– Avoid walking while impaired; arrange for someone sober if necessary.
– Report suspected drunk drivers by contacting local law enforcement.
The GTSC encourages use of its “Have a Plan” mobile app—which provides access to taxi services as well as information about DWI laws—for both Apple and Android users.
For those seeking help with addiction issues or supporting loved ones who struggle with substance abuse in New York State, resources are available through HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or by texting HOPENY (Short Code 467369). Treatment options including crisis/detox care can be found via FindAddictionTreatment.ny.gov or through NYS OASAS.