Don’t Rely on Luck: Be Smart, Choose a Sober Way to Go This Saint Patrick’s Day NA25017kt

Friday, March 14
DUI Checkpoint from 6 PM to 11 PM at Sunset Boulevard and Coronado Street
DUI Checkpoint from 6 PM to 11 PM at Roscoe Boulevard and Woodley Avenue
DUI Checkpoint from 6 PM to 11 PM at Western Avenue and Venice Boulevard

Saturday, March 15
DUI Checkpoint from 6 PM to 11 PM at Van Nuys Boulevard and Roscoe Boulevard

Monday, March 17
DUI Saturation Patrol from 3 PM to 11 PM in Hollywood Area
DUI Saturation Patrol from 3 PM to 11 PM in Wilshire Area

Note: Locations of the checkpoints are subject to change or cancelation.

Saint Patrick’s Day is a time to celebrate with friends, family and good cheer. However, as the festivities often include alcohol, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is urging everyone to prioritize safety and avoid driving under the influence. Don’t rely on luck-plan and make sure you have a sober way to get home.

In 2022 alone, there were 74 drunk-driving fatalities during the Saint Patrick’s Day holiday, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). More than 13,500 preventable deaths throughout 2022 involved drunk driving, representing 32% of all traffic fatalities in the United States that year.

Plan for a safe celebration. Before heading out for Saint Patrick’s Day festivities, follow these tips to stay safe:
· Designate a Sober Driver: Choose someone ahead of time who will stay alcohol-free and make sure everyone gets home safely.
· Use Ride-Sharing Services or Public Transportation: Apps and transit options are great alternatives to driving if you’ve been drinking.
· Look Out for Others: Don’t let friends or family members drive impaired. Take their keys and help arrange a safe, sober ride.
· Stay Alert: Watch for impaired drivers on the road and report them to local law enforcement by calling 911.

The LAPD reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cannabis products and other drugs may also cause impairment. If you plan on drinking or taking medications with a driving warning label, let someone who is sober drive.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.