New Britain Twp. Police Adding Extra Patrols For St. Patrick's Day

NEW BRITAIN TOWNSHIP, PA — The New Britain Township Police Department will be adding extra patrols in the days leading up to St. Patrick's Day, March 17.

Police will be on the lookout for impaired drivers who generally stick out in traffic by failing to maintain their lanes, swerving for things that aren’t there, making illegal turns and lane changes, failing to signal or stop, and driving well below the speed limit.

Impaired driving doesn't just include alcohol. Some prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and other illegal drugs can also interfere with safe driving and land someone a DUI charge. In addition, while medicinal marijuana use is legal in the Commonwealth, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, St. Patrick's Day is one of the deadliest times on roads nationwide.

"If you plan on leaving home to partake in the frivolity of St Patrick's Day and imbibe in a few pints or a few drams and/or take medications that may impair your ability to drive safely, we suggest that you pre-plan with your friends or family for a designated driver, or chose a ride-share company (Uber or Lyft) to get home safely," said police. "We wants you to have a safe and enjoyable time, but we will be looking for those who chose to put themselves and others at risk by irresponsible behavior."