ID State Police Encourage a Safe St. Patrick’s Day

It is a right as an American citizen to have an alcoholic beverage if over the age of 21. It is illegal to drive after imbibing and reaching a breath alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or more.

What Are the Most Popular Drinking Holidays?

Many people in Idaho enjoy St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Many of those celebrations include drinking. Whether an excuse to drink green beer or actually celebrate Irish heritage, alcohol consumption is expected to be high this weekend. St. Patrick’s Day is the 3rd Booziest holiday of the year behind Mardi Gras and New Year’s Eve.

Idaho State Police (ISP) wants to make sure residents enjoy the holiday responsibly. Arranging a sober ride home in advance removes any chance of drinking and driving. This ensures less worry for family and friends. With plans in place, everyone can enjoy the festivities.

What Do the Drunk Driving Statistics in Idaho Look Like?

From 2017-2021, 272 lives came to an end due to drunk driving during this holiday period.

At a local level, throughout 2022, OHS data reveals 1,799 impaired driving crashes in Idaho, resulting in the loss of 110 lives. During this time, law enforcement made 7,781 DUI arrests statewide. These statistics emphasize the importance of getting a sober ride home - not only on St. Patrick's Day but throughout the year.

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ISP is teaming up with the Idaho Transportation Department’s Office of Highway Safety (OHS) to amp up patrols and discourage drunk and impaired driving. They are doing their part, but residents should know this is a collective responsibility. Encourage people who have been drinking to find a safe way home. Intervene to save the drivers and potential victims from needless trouble.

What's worse that raining cats and dogs? Hailing taxis.