News

Actions

Police to crack down on drunk driving this St. Patrick’s Day

Posted at 7:47 AM, Mar 13, 2013
and last updated 2013-03-15 06:39:03-04

James City County, Va. – Police are reminding drivers not to drink and drive – and this weekend, enhanced law enforcement officers will focus on drunk and drugged driving.

As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, Master Police Officer Leslie Sten is urging motorists to plan a safe ride home and never to get behind the wheel drunk.

Officials say this weekend, law enforcement officials in James City County will be on high alert, cracking down on drunk drivers as part of its ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ public safety campaign.

“Drunk driving is dangerous, deadly and against the law – and it will not be tolerated in James City County this St. Patrick’s Day,” said Officer Sten.

“Today we are giving fair warning to everyone traveling through James City County that our law enforcement officers will be out on patrol and if you are caught driving drunk you will be arrested.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports from 2006 to 2010, more than 700 people were killed nationwide in crashes involving drunk drivers during St. Patrick’s Day holidays.

On average, every 51 minutes, a person is killed in a drunk-driving crash in the United States and the majority of these crashes involve drivers who have blood alcohol concentrations of .15 grams per deciliter or higher – almost twice legal limit of .08 g/dL.

“Whether you are gathering with friends at the local pub or attending a party, if alcohol is part of the festivities, make sure you designate a sober driver to get you home safely,” said Sten.

Related Content:

Weekend traffic checkpoints in Virginia Beach

Police to crack down on drunk driving this St. Patrick’s Day

Portsmouth police to crack down on drunk drivers this weekend