Don't Drink And Drive On St. Patrick's: Lorain County Sheriffs

AVON, OH — The Lorain County Sheriff's Office is reminding residents that buzzed driving is drunk driving. With the St. Patrick's Day holiday approaching, law enforcement are asking Ohioans to find a sober driver before hitting the roads.

More than 36,000 people were killed in car crashes in 2018 and nearly 30 percent of those fatalities happened when someone was drinking and driving, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In 2018 alone, 73 people were killed during the St. Patrick's holiday because of drunk-driving crashes.

“These needless deaths could have been prevented,” said Lt. Charles Motylewski. “Planning a sober ride home before the party begins is the first step in staying safe on St. Patrick’s Day. Don’t wait until you’ve already been drinking to make your transportation decision. Designate your sober driver in advance, and never get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking. Remember: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.”

Before Lorain County residents party too hard, the sheriffs are asking residents to follow these simple tips.

• Before going to a party, decide whether you will drink or you will drive. You cannot do both.
• If you're planning on driving, do not drink at all.
• Take care of the people around you. Help intoxicated people find sober rides home.
• If you see someone driving drunk, call the police. Your phone call could save a life.