BNPD and agencies across Arkansas are teaming up with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration March 17-20 to spread the message about the dangers of buzzed or drunk driving as St. Patrick’s Day approaches. Citizens should expect to see increased enforcement on the roads and zero tolerance for impaired driving.
“We want everyone to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day, but we expect drivers to take responsibility for their actions,” said Lt. Don Robertson. “It’s never acceptable to get behind the wheel of a vehicle after you’ve been drinking; doing so endangers you and everyone on the road with you.”
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 10,142 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes in 2019. During St. Patrick’s Day 2019, almost half (46 percent) of crash fatalities involved a drunk driver. percent of fatal crashes between midnight and 6 a.m. involved a drunk driver.
“With thousands of fatalities still occurring every year due to negligent behavior, we will continue to heavily patrol during these times and will accept absolutely no excuses,” said Robertson.
He noted that drivers are also urged to watch for intoxicated pedestrians, as the risk for getting hit by a vehicle also increases during holidays. In addition to these tips, anyone planning to celebrate should plan ahead for a sober ride, and if an impaired driver is spotted, always report it to your local agency.
For more information on impaired driving, visit www.nhtsa.gov.