Drunk Driving Enforcement Increases For St. Patrick's Day In MOCO

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD — Authorities are increasing drunk driving enforcement for St. Patrick's Day and offering ride share and alternative transportation options for people who decide to drink while celebrating.

“St. Patrick’s Day is one of the deadliest times on our nation’s roadways,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin in a news release. “Nationally, it is the third-most popular drinking holiday, next to New Year’s Eve and Mardi Gras. In 2019, 6 percent of fatal St. Patrick’s Day car crashes between midnight and 6 a.m. involved a drunk driver. These losses are preventable. Be responsible. If you choose to celebrate with alcohol, plan out your night and arrange for a safe ride home in advance.”

There will be an offer of up to $15 off a Lyft ride from 4 p.m. on Thursday, March 17, until 4 a.m. on Friday, March 18, offered by the Washington Regional Alcohol Program. There will be a promotional code for the discount on its website.

Montgomery County Ride On buses are still free and run from 4 a.m. to midnight. Find stops and schedules here.

“The Montgomery County Police Department is dedicated to the safety of our citizens during the St. Patrick’s holiday,” said Police Chief Marcus Jones in the release. “The Montgomery County Police- Alcohol Initiative Unit will be conducting a DUI checkpoint on March 17, 2022. If you are going to participate in St. Patrick’s Day activities and celebrate with alcohol, do not drink and drive. Have a designated driver, call a ride service or use SoberRide.”