As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, law enforcement agencies caution people to celebrate the holiday Saturday, March 17, without drinking and driving. The Sheriff’s Department and the CHP will have extra officers on patrol to spot drivers who show signs of being impaired. Even one drink can be too many, authorities warn. In 2016, 60 people were killed nationwide in drunk-driving crashes over the St. Patrick’s Day holiday period, which extends from 6 p.m. tonight to 6 a.m. Sunday. In California last year, the CHP made 148 arrests statewide for driving under the influence on St. Patrick’s Day. That same day, three people were killed and 66 people were injured statewide as a result of DUI collisions. Officers and deputies are not just focusing on alcohol. In recent years, California has seen an increase in drug-impaired driving crashes, prescription drugs and even marijuana can lead to a DUI.
