NHSP: Don't Rely on Luck on St. Patrick's Day

State Police Director Col. Robert Quinn announces this St Patrick’s Day, troopers will be out in force looking for drivers who choose to operate under the influence of alcohol or impairing drugs in an effort to decrease highway collisions and prevent injuries and deaths, according to a press statement from the New Hampshire State Police.

Patrols will be conducted throughout the state by troopers skilled in the detection of impaired driving including several “drug recognition experts.”

The men and women of the New Hampshire State Police appreciate the public’s assistance in removing impaired drivers from our roadways. This initiative is intended to bring further attention to the serious consequences of impaired driving and the grave danger those who choose to drink and drive pose to all who share the roadways with them. Of the 89 fatal crashes in 2014, the cause of 28 percent of them have been directly related to alcohol and/or drug impairment.

The NH State Police, as part of the NH Driving Toward Zero Coalition, joins with other state, local and county safety officials in offering these simple tips to help New Hampshire residents enjoy a safe and festive holiday without jeopardizing their own lives and the lives of others:

• Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin;
• Before drinking, designate a sober driver and give that person your keys;
• If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely;
• If you notice a vehicle operating erratically and suspect an impaired driver, contact law enforcement by calling 911;
• If someone you know is about to drive while impaired, take his or her keys and help him or her make arrangements to get home safely.

It is important for people to be responsible and to remember that consuming alcohol and driving a vehicle do not mix. It is also important to consider the effects of over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription drugs and how these substances can also cause impairment, especially when combined with the consumption of alcoholic beverages.

The New Hampshire State Police are committed to ensuring safe travel throughout the state and will continue our efforts to reduce highway collisions throughout 2015.