Be a Saint on St. Patrick’s Day

As St. Patrick's Day approaches, let's make sure we celebrate responsibly and avoid any dangerous situations on the road. The Pasadena Police Department is urging everyone to plan ahead and designate a sober driver before enjoying any festivities.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense that puts everyone's safety at risk. To prevent accidents and ensure a safe celebration, the Pasadena Police Department will have additional officers on patrol on March 17 to detect impaired drivers.

Lieutenant Anthony Russo reminds us that alcohol is not the only substance that can cause impairment. Marijuana, prescription medications, and over-the-counter drugs can also affect your ability to drive. It's important to do your research and understand how certain drugs can impact your driving skills.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), St. Patrick's Day is one of the deadliest times on our nation's roads. In 2020 alone, over 11,000 people in the U.S. died in drunk-driving crashes.

Let's make sure we celebrate responsibly and avoid any dangerous situations on the road. Remember to plan ahead and designate a sober driver, schedule a ride share, or make other arrangements to ensure you get home safely. This program is made possible by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Let's work together to keep our roads safe for everyone.