As St. Patrick’s Day nears, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), alongside the U.S. Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), is urging residents to celebrate responsibly by avoiding impaired driving.
St. Patrick’s Day has been identified as one of the most dangerous days on U.S. roads. NHTSA data indicates that between 2018 and 2022, 38% of traffic fatalities during this period involved drunk drivers. In 2022, alcohol-impaired crashes claimed 74 lives nationwide during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, with 49 fatalities involving drivers who had a blood alcohol content nearly twice the legal limit.
Connecticut has also faced challenges with impaired driving. In 2022, there were 130 deaths in alcohol-related crashes in the state, making up about 35% of all roadway fatalities.
“St. Patrick’s Day is a time for celebration and community, and the safety of you and others depends on responsible choices,” stated Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Plan ahead and get home safely by designating a sober driver or arranging to use a ride-share service, taxi, or public transportation.”
Colonel Daniel Loughman from the Connecticut State Police emphasized increased DUI enforcement efforts: “As St. Patrick’s Day approaches…additional DUI enforcement efforts will be in place throughout the St. Patrick’s Day weekend to ensure the safety of our community members.”
Watertown Police Chief Josh Bernegger highlighted the importance of safe transportation: “The luck of the Irish won’t help you this St. Patrick’s Day if you drive impaired.”
CTDOT advises residents to designate a sober driver or plan alternative transportation options such as ride-sharing services or public transit for safe travel during holiday festivities.
They encourage installing ride-sharing apps beforehand and saving local taxi numbers for convenience. Additionally, CTDOT reminds individuals to report any suspected impaired drivers by calling 911.
Driving under the influence poses risks not only to drivers but also to passengers and other road users. CTDOT and NHTSA stress that even small amounts of alcohol can impair driving abilities.
For more information on preventing impaired driving, visit nhtsa.gov.
