State and local law enforcement team up for heightened patrols and compliance checks during St. Patrick’s Day week, as New York enforces serious consequences for impaired driving and underage drinking

New York – New York law enforcement is stepping up its efforts to keep roads safe during the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Beginning March 10, New York State Police, along with local agencies, will be increasing patrols to crack down on impaired driving and underage drinking.

The initiative, funded by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, will remain in effect until March 17. Authorities warn that those caught driving under the influence or violating liquor laws will face serious consequences.

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Governor Kathy Hochul reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to public safety, emphasizing the devastating impact of impaired driving. She recalled the tragic story of Atoria Elem, a young woman whose life was forever changed by a drunk driver.

In 2018, Atoria, then 21, was on her way to celebrate her birthday when a vehicle driven by an intoxicated driver crashed into her head-on. The accident left her with severe injuries, including a broken femur and a shattered kneecap. At the time, she had aspirations of becoming a state trooper, but the crash forced her to alter her career path.

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Governor Hochul urged New Yorkers to make responsible choices, stressing that one reckless decision can alter lives in an instant.

Law enforcement officials echoed the Governor’s sentiments, underscoring the importance of personal responsibility. Mark J.F. Schroeder, Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles and Chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, reminded drivers that there is no excuse for getting behind the wheel while impaired.

“Put your safety and the safety of others first. Designate a sober driver to get home. The simple steps of having a plan for a safe ride saves lives.,” he stated.

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New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James added that education and enforcement efforts are key to preventing tragedies on the road. Officers will be conducting sobriety checkpoints, increasing patrols, and monitoring for violations such as speeding, distracted driving, and failure to obey the Move Over Law.

Beyond impaired driving, authorities will also be cracking down on underage drinking. Retail establishments will be subject to compliance checks to ensure they are not selling alcohol to minors. The statewide effort aims to prevent young people from engaging in risky behaviors that could lead to serious accidents or legal trouble.

New York State Association of Chiefs of Police President and City of Batavia Police Department Chief Shawn Heubusch said, “Don’t press your luck this St. Patrick’s Day. Drive sober, slow down and stay safe. The luck of the Irish won’t protect you from a DWI or a crash.”

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The statistics behind impaired driving are sobering. During last year’s St. Patrick’s Day enforcement period, law enforcement made 935 DWI arrests and issued nearly 25,000 traffic tickets, including more than 4,600 for speeding. Nationally, drunk driving kills an average of 37 people every day—roughly one death every 39 minutes. These deaths are entirely preventable, yet they continue to claim lives.

State officials are urging residents to take simple precautions to avoid becoming a statistic. Partygoers are encouraged to plan ahead by arranging for a designated driver, using a rideshare service, or opting for public transportation.

The “Have a Plan” mobile app, developed by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee and the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation, provides users with resources to find a safe ride home and learn about DWI laws. Additionally, anyone struggling with addiction can seek help through New York’s 24/7 HOPEline or the state’s online treatment availability dashboard.

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As the festivities begin, New York’s message is clear: celebrating responsibly saves lives. Law enforcement will be watching, and those who choose to drive under the influence or provide alcohol to minors will face serious repercussions. Whether it’s enjoying a parade, raising a glass with friends, or simply traveling home, making safe choices this St. Patrick’s Day could be the difference between a joyful celebration and a life-altering tragedy.