This St. Patrick’s Day don’t push your luck by letting drunk drive. The Newport Beach Police Department will be on alert for suspected impaired drivers and reminds the community to celebrate responsibly by not driving under the influence.

Additional officers will be on patrol March 17th looking for drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

“Leave your keys at home and plan ahead before you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day,” Lieutenant Little said. “Designate a sober driver, schedule a ride share or make other plans to get home safely if you plan to consume alcohol.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), St. Patrick’s Day is one of the deadliest times on our nation’s roads. In 2020, more than 11,000 people in the U.S. died in drunk-driving crashes.

The Newport Beach Police Department’s Lieutenant Eric Little wants to warn the community that alcohol is not the only substance that can cause impairment. Marijuana, prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may also impair. Do your research and understand how certain drugs may affect your driving ability.