BALTIMORE, MD—In anticipation of increased DUI risks, the Maryland State Police have announced increased patrols and enforcement efforts targeting aggressive, distracted, and impaired driving throughout the St. Patrick’s Day weekend. Starting Friday, March 14th, and continuing through Monday, March 17th, troopers from all 23 barracks will be deployed in saturation patrols, focusing on roadways known for high rates of impaired driving-related crashes.
This initiative is funded by the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration’s Highway Safety Office. The emphasis on enforcement will be concentrated on major corridors and interstates throughout the state, including routes 301, 50, 495, 270, 70, 81, 40, and 65. The Berlin Barracks will send more troopers to the Ocean City St. Patrick’s Day parade. The Waterloo and Westminster Barrack will join forces with Howard County Police and Carroll County Sheriff’s and Westminster City Police, respectively, for traffic enforcement.
The Maryland State Police urge all motorists to plan ahead for safe transportation if celebrating this St. Patrick’s Day. They recommend designating a sober driver, utilizing public transportation or ride-sharing services, and never driving under the influence of alcohol. The police also remind the public that they can be held liable for serving alcohol to anyone who then drives impaired.
The Maryland State Police will also be participating in various community outreach initiatives throughout the weekend to promote safe driving practices. For those celebrating, the agency offers the following tips: designate a sober driver, avoid drinking and driving, utilize public transportation or ride-sharing services, prevent impaired friends from driving, call 911 if you suspect an impaired driver, and always buckle up.
This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.
Photo by Burak Kebapci from Pexels
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