Williamson County Sheriff’s Office reminds drivers to plan before you party on St. Patrick’s Day

(KBSI) – The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office reminds drivers to drive sober or get pulled over with the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day holiday.

St. Patrick’s Day celebrations can turn deadly because of impaired driving.

If you’ll be drinking alcohol, using cannabis or any other impairing substance, the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office reminds  remember “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High. Get a DUI.”

“This year, St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Friday, and that means more parties throughout the weekend,” said Sheriff Jeff Diederich. “If you’ve been drinking, using cannabis or any other impairing drugs, make the smart choice and plan for a sober driver to get you and your friend’s home safely. Before you put your keys in the ignition, remind yourself: “Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.”

In addition to looking for alcohol and cannabis-impaired drivers, the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office will step up seat belt enforcement, particularly at night when seat belt usage rates are lowest.

Speeding distracted driving and all traffic laws will be strictly enforced, according to the sheriff’s department.

Sheriff Jeff Diederich says if you choose to drink or use cannabis, designate a sober, reliable driver to get you home safely.

Other important tips:

• Remember, you can be held liable and prosecuted if someone you serve is involved in an impaired driving crash.
• Make sure all guests designate a sober driver in advance or help arrange ride-sharing with other sober drivers.
• Serve lots of food and include lots of non-alcoholic beverages at the party.
• Keep the phone numbers for local cab companies handy and take the keys away from anyone who is thinking of
  driving drunk.
• Designate a sober driver before the party begins and give that person your keys.
• If you do not have a designated driver, ask a sober friend for a ride home, call a cab, sober friend or family
  member to pick you up or just stay where you are and sleep it off until you are sober.
• Never let a friend leave your sight if you think they are about to drive drunk.
• Always buckle up.

Pedestrians are at risk as well. If you are walking, keep an eye out for cars. Designated drivers are urged to be alert for impaired walkers who may not obey street signs.

The St. Patrick’s Day enforcement campaign is funded by federal traffic safety funds from the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration and is administered through the Illinois Department of Transportation.