Virginia State Police continues Operation C.A.R.E for St. Patrick's Day
VIRGINIA () — Festivities celebrating Ireland's patron saint took place throughout the weekend. If you plan to join the fun on St. Patrick's Day, Virginia State Police (VSP) reminds the community not to drink and drive.
Officials noted that drunk driving is not only deadly, but it can be costly. If caught while driving drunk some of the consequences include jail time, losing driving privileges and vehicle and paying up to $10,000 in attorney's fees, according to state police.
Buckle up! Maryland State Police to increase patrols on highways, roads for St. Patrick's Day
VSP said that in 2024, the weekend of St. Patrick's Day (March 15-18), 87 crashes involving alcohol happened across the Commonwealth. Troopers said six people died and 53 people were injured.
'The safety of our citizens is our top concern,' said Colonel Matthew D. Hanley, Superintendent of the Virginia State Police. 'We encourage everyone to take the necessary steps to ensure there is a sober driver during the holiday and every day. By working together, we can keep our roadways safe.'
To prevent deadly crashes and injuries throughout St. Patrick's Day, VSP will participate in Operation C.A.R.E (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort). The operation began at 12:01 a.m. on March 15 and will end at midnight on March 17.
Person injured after tree falls on roadway in Potomac
Until then, there will be an increase in state troopers across the highways and state police urge drivers to:
Ensure you have a designated sober driver, a plan to use public transportation or a ride share service BEFORE any drinking begins.
Buzzed driving is drunk driving. Be honest with yourself and know that even if you only plan on having one drink, you should plan on having a designated driver.
Walking while intoxicated can also be deadly. Being under the influence can cause a lack of attention to surroundings and put pedestrians at risk of being hit by a vehicle.
If you see a drunk driver on the road, pull over safely and dial #77 on a cell phone or call 911.
If you know someone who has been drinking and is about to drive, take the keys and make arrangements to get them home safely.
If you are driving, keep an eye out for pedestrians and other vulnerable road users on the roadways.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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