St. Patrick's Day – one of the biggest celebrations out of the year is upon us!
Pennsylvania State Police made hundreds of DUI arrests during this weekend in the past and Lt. Adam Reed says they are anticipating a similar outcome this year.
“So, traditionally St. Patrick’s Day weekend is one of the highest volume weekends we see for impaired drivers on the roadways,” said Lt. Reed, the Director of Communication.
With this information, Reed tells 6 News they are urging the public to use common sense this weekend.
“Don’t get behind the wheel impaired; it’s really just not worth it,” Reed said. “So, every time you get behind the wheel impaired, whether that’s on alcohol or drugs you’re really risking your own life and the life of others on the road with you.”
Reed says there will be heavy police presence on the roads this weekend looking for impaired drivers.
“Last year, our troopers made over 300 dui arrests over the St. Patrick’s Day weekend, so the numbers probably are going to fall similarly in line this year with last year,” added Reed.
To ensure there are no impaired drivers behind the wheel Reed tells Channel 6 they will be setting up DUI checkpoints.
“That’s going to include one of our troopers or a local officer asking for your license, insurance, and registration," said Reed. "Maybe where are you coming from, where are you heading to this evening and if you’re not impaired you know, you really have nothing to worry about. You’re going to be on your way in a matter of seconds. However, the point of these dui checkpoints is to check and find impaired drivers as their coming up on that checkpoint.”
During DUI checkpoints in the past, Reed explains officers not only found impaired drivers, but often times illegal drugs, weapons and people with warrants.
“Again, it’s really not worth getting behind the wheel impaired,” Reed added. “Worst case scenario you could seriously injure or take the life of yourself or another person. Best case scenario, you know a member of law enforcement find you before that is able to happen and, in that case, you’re looking at potentially thousands of dollars in court fees, fines, suspension of your driver’s license and potentially even jail time.”
Reed says it’s a good idea for those of us going out this weekend to use a ride share service like Uber or find a designated driver.
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