Law enforcement to increase patrols for St. Pat’s holiday

Go ahead and wear green, eat corned beef and cabbage, dance a jig – celebrate St. Patrick’s Day however you choose. As you prepare to celebrate, don’t forget to make a safe, responsible plan for how you will get home after the festivities. Across Montana, local law enforcement and the Highway Patrol will be patrolling looking for impaired drivers.

“As Montanans gather to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in their communities, we know alcoholic beverages will be present,” said Whitefish Police Chief Bridger Kelch. “If there’s even a possibility you’ll be drinking, make a plan before the festivities begin. Ask a friend or family member to be your designated driver, reserve a rideshare, or make sleeping arrangements for the night so you don’t need to drive. Celebrate the holiday but do so safely and responsibly!”

As of March 7, of this year, 20 lives have already been lost on Montana’s roads compared to 42 fatalities for this same period in 2021. While Montana has been making progress in reducing the number of alcohol-impaired driving fatalities, we still have a long way to go. Report suspected impaired drivers by dialing 911, and always wear your seat belt, as it continues to be the best defense against impaired drivers.

“A sober ride is the only safe plan for you and others on the road,” added Kelch. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your loved ones care and want to make sure you get home safe and alive.”

This is a Vision Zero Message from the Montana Department of Transportation. For more information about Vision Zero, contact Janet Kenny, Montana Department of Transportation, 406-444-7417 or jakenny@mt.gov.