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@Multcoso
St. Patrick's Day (March 17) is one of America's most widely celebrated holidays; for the Irish and non-Irish alike, celebrations tend to include a pint (or a few) of green beer. The night often ends with drunk drivers on the road, which pose a threat to other drivers, passengers, bicyclists, and pedestrians.
For that reason, Multnomah County Sheriff's Office deputies will have enhanced DUII patrols throughout the holiday weekend and will be out in full force to make sure that if you are behind the wheel, you are sober.
Here are some of the facts from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
During the 2016 St. Patrick's Day holiday period (March 16 to 18)...
...60 people were killed
...almost two-fifths (39%) of all motor vehicle crash fatalities involved drunk drivers
Between midnight and 5:59 a.m. on the 18th...
...nearly three-fourths (69%) of all crash fatalities involved drunk drivers
...over half (55%) of the crash fatalities had a BAC of .08% or higher
"We are asking the community to support zero tolerance for drunk or impaired driving," requests Patrol Sergeant Bryan White. With so many alternatives, there is no excuse for getting behind the wheel after using intoxicants.
Always have a plan.
* Designate a sober driver. Is it your turn to be the D.D.? Take that role seriously--your friends could be relying on you.
* Call a taxi or ride-sharing service.
* Use public transportation.
* If you see an impaired driver, call 9-1-1.
* If you know someone who plans to drive impaired, take the keys and make arrangements for a safe trip home.
Remember that it is never okay to drink and drive. Even if you've only had one alcoholic beverage.
Don't bet your luck this St. Patrick's Day. Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.
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