As Iowans gear up for Saint Patrick’s Day festivities, law enforcement agencies statewide are joining forces to promote road safety. The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau (GTSB) is partnering with law enforcement across Iowa from March 13 to 21 to emphasize a simple yet critical message: Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving.
St. Patrick’s Day, steeped in tradition and celebrated across the nation with festivals, parades, and parties, carries with it an increased risk of impaired driving incidents. According to GTSB Bureau Chief Brett Tjepkes, who spoke to Radio Iowa, “These celebrations frequently feature themed cocktails and green pints, and the amount of alcohol consumed is higher than average.” He added, “People are more likely to make poor decisions as a result, including driving while intoxicated.”
With St. Patrick’s Day falling on a Sunday this year, authorities anticipate heightened alcohol consumption throughout the weekend. Last March, Iowa witnessed 26 traffic fatalities, with almost 40% occurring during the week of St. Patrick’s Day, from March 11 to 19, 2023, according to GTSB statistics.
Tjepkes emphasized the importance of planning ahead and making responsible choices. “Don’t turn a day of fun into a tragic and devastating time by driving while intoxicated,” he cautioned. “If you wait until you’ve been drinking to make a smart decision, you might not.”
In a press release cleverly entitled “Green Beer and Driving Don’t Mix”, the GTSB also underscored the need for vigilance regarding pedestrian safety. An increase in alcohol consumption coupled with pedestrian traffic poses a serious risk. Pedestrians are urged to cross streets in well-lit areas and utilize crosswalks for their safety.
Officers will be on high alert for impaired drivers throughout the week. “Our law enforcement partners will be looking for impaired drivers,” Tjepkes confirmed. He advised revelers to designate a sober driver, call a taxi, or utilize rideshare services if they’ve been drinking.
Additionally, the GTSB urged individuals to intervene if they encounter someone who is about to drive drunk. “If you have a friend who is about to drive drunk, take away their keys and help them get home safely,” Tjepkes advised.
The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau collaborates with various organizations at the city, county, state, and local levels to develop and implement strategies aimed at reducing deaths and injuries on Iowa’s roadways, utilizing federally funded grants. As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, law enforcement agencies remind everyone to prioritize safety and celebrate responsibly.
