COSTA MESA, Calif. (March 15, 2021) – If you are celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, remember to do so responsibly by having a plan to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
This St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, the Costa Mesa Police Department (CMPD) will have officers on patrol from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. looking for drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
CMPD reminds drivers that “DUI Doesn’t Just Mean Booze.” Prescription or over-the-counter medications with an “operating heavy machinery” warning on the label can also impair. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.
“If drinking is part of your plans and you’re going out, plan on designating a sober driver to find a safe way home,” said CMPD Sgt. Dan Miles. “Don’t make poor choices and allow yourself to mix alcohol and/or drugs with driving.”
On St. Patrick’s Day 2019 in California, seven people were killed, and 116 others were injured in crashes caused by driving under the influence.
Not only does driving under the influence put yourself and others on the road at risk, but it also hurts financially; attorneys’ fees, fines, court costs, insurance rate hikes and car repairs can reach $15,000 or more in California.
“It’s simple, don’t drink and drive,” Sgt. Miles said. “Stay at home or find a sober driver to take you home.”
If you ever see a suspected drunk driver on the road, call 911.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
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