NEW YORK (WKBW) — New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced a DWI crackdown will be taking place across New York State this St. Patrick's Day weekend.
Officials say extra state and local patrols were put in place Friday, March 15th and will continue through Monday March 18th.
The governor's office says drivers can expect sobriety checkpoints, additional DWI patrols and underage drinking and sales to minors details during the campaign.
"If your plans for St. Patrick's Day weekend include alcohol, please make the responsible decision and plan for a safe ride home," Governor Cuomo said. "One bad decision can turn celebration into tragedy, and state and local law enforcement will be out in full force to keep our roadways safe."
According to officials, the 2018 St. Patrick's Day weekend enforcement effort resulted in Troopers making 243 DWI arrests and issuing nearly 13,000 tickets.
Officials ask you to follow these steps so everyone can enjoy the holiday festivities safely this weekend:
• Before the festivities begin, plan a way to safely get home at the end of the night.
• Before you start drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home.
• If you're impaired, use a taxi or ridesharing service, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely.
• If available, use your community's sober ride program
• Walking impaired can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Designate a sober friend to walk you home.
• If you see a drunk driver on the road, call local law enforcement. You could save a life.
The campaign is funded through the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee.
