Nebraska State Patrol Encourages Safe Driving This St. Patrick’s Day

MARCH 15, 2024 (LINCOLN, NEB.)  —  Don’t rely on luck to make roadways safe this St. Patrick’s Day. Nebraska State Troopers will be on patrol for impaired drivers this weekend as part of a nationwide enforcement effort for St. Patrick’s Day.

“Impaired driving is dangerous for everyone,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “If your St. Patrick’s Day plans involve alcohol, have a plan in place to make it home safely.”

Troopers will be working overtime across the state this St. Patrick’s Day. Troopers will be performing high-visibility patrols throughout the state from Saturday evening through Monday morning as part of this operation.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that St. Patrick’s Day is one of the deadliest times on roadways across the country. So far in 2024, troopers have made 241 arrests for driving under the influence. That compares to 190 DUI arrests during the same period in 2023.

Here are some tips to avoid driving impaired this St. Patrick’s Day or any time of the year:
-Anticipate: Arrange your safe transportation before indulging in alcohol.
-Explore your options: Designate a sober driver, call a cab, or use a rideshare.
-If you’re the designated driver, take your job seriously and don’t drink.
-If you see an impaired or dangerous driver, report it to the NSP Highway Helpline at *55.
 
This effort is made possible thanks in part to a grant for $13,680 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.