The Beverly Hills Police Department (BHPD) is asking anyone celebrating St. Patrick’s Day on March 17 to do so responsibly. Those planning to drink should make arrangements to get home safely.
This St. Patrick’s Day, the BHPD will have officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
“If drinking is part of your plans, plan on designating a sober driver and find a safe way home,” Beverly Hills Police Chief Dominick Rivetti said. “Don’t make poor choices and allow yourself to mix alcohol 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.
Driving under the influence is a risky venture, not only in terms of safety, but in terms of finances, as well. Attorneys’ fees, fines, court costs, insurance rate hikes and car repairs can reach $15,000 or more in California.
California’s public health guidance advises residents to limit mixing with people not in the same household, in order to curb the spread of COVID-19. Although many St. Patrick’s Day celebrations will be held virtually this year, those planning to go out should still designate a sober driver.
Anyone who sees a suspected drunk driver on the road should call 911.
