St. Patrick's Day: Don't count on luck and drive after drinking

The California and Nevada Highway Patrol, South Lake Tahoe Police Department and the Douglas County Sheriff's Office are reminding everyone who celebrates St. Patrick’s Day that no one is immune from the consequences of drunk driving.

Drunk driving is a top problem for both states, and local law enforcement will be joining forces to boost enforcement efforts and initiating a impaired driving mobilization period from March 17 to March 31, 2016.

There will be a DUI check point in South Lake Tahoe during those two weeks, as well as increased patrols by all agencies, looking for drunk drivers.

In efforts to achieve the “Zero Fatalities” goal, drivers are encouraged to know the law for blood alcohol levels and to abide by the following guidelines:

• designate a sober driver before drinking;
• use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member or use public transportation if impaired;
• take advantage of local sober ride programs;
• call 911 if a drunk driver is spotted on the road;
• take the keys or assist in making other arrangements for someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired

“Don’t test your luck this St. Patrick’s Day,” said Rhonda Craft, Director of the Office of Traffic Safety. “Be sure to use a designated driver this St. Patrick’s Day, or the party will be over before you know it.”