As St. Patrick’s Day celebrations approach, law enforcement and traffic safety officials are reminding the public to plan ahead and avoid drinking and driving. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is working alongside Berks County police to spread an important message: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.
According to NHTSA, alcohol-impaired driving continues to be a significant threat during the holiday. Between 2018 and 2022, 38% of all traffic fatalities occurring during the St. Patrick’s Day holiday period (from 6 p.m. on March 16 to 5:59 a.m. on March 18) involved drunk drivers. In 2022 alone, 74 people lost their lives in alcohol-related crashes during this time, with nearly two-thirds of those drivers having blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) nearly double the legal limit.
Sergeant David Bentz of the Exeter Township Police Department, who also serves as the Berks County Coordinator for the North Central Regional DUI Enforcement Program, emphasized the dangers of driving under the influence.
“Embracing St. Patrick’s Day and its traditions is one thing; engaging in the deadly behavior that is drinking and driving is another,” Bentz said. “Feeling buzzed and getting behind the wheel puts lives at risk.”
Law enforcement officials urge drivers to plan ahead if they intend to drink. Instead of making last-minute decisions while impaired, they recommend securing a designated sober driver, using a taxi or rideshare service, or staying at a safe location.
“If a driver finds they are unable to drive, they should give their keys to a sober driver,” Bentz added. “If a friend has been drinking and is considering driving, be proactive—take away their keys and help them get home safely.”
Authorities are also encouraging the public to report suspected drunk drivers by calling 911.
For more information on the dangers of impaired driving, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving.
