Don't rely on luck: Designate a sober driver this St. Patrick's Day

SALT LAKE CITY — Parades, music, and plenty of green — St. Patrick's Day is a fun time for many. But Utah Highway Patrol is reminding drivers: don't rely on the luck of the Irish to get home safely. "We definitely see a spike in DUIs over this holiday and the days surrounding it," said Lt. Zach Randall. Troopers will be increasing patrols across the state from Friday through Tuesday to keep impaired drivers off the roads and stop crashes. According to the Utah Department of Public Safety, 36 police agencies will work more than 155 additional DUI shifts over the holiday weekend. "If you plan to drink at all, don't plan to get behind the wheel and drive," Randall said. "We want to encourage people to go out, have a good time, socialize, of course, but please plan ahead. Make those arrangements ahead of time, whether it's a rideshare service, a cab, a friend, a family member." "We want everybody to be safe -- that's our main goal," he added. Safety tips from DPS:

• If you drink, don’t drive – impairment starts with the first drink.
• Never let a friend drive impaired. Arrange a safe and sober way for them to get home.
• Any impairing substance could lead to a DUI.  Medications, drugs, or any combination with alcohol can significantly affect your judgment and driving ability.
• Designate a sober driver in your group before going out.
• If you see an impaired driver on the road, call 911.
• Always drive buckled; it’s your best defense against impaired drivers.

Related: How easy it is for police to catch distracted drivers

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