Frederick, Md. (DG) – With St. Patrick’s Day celebrations getting underway, drivers across western Maryland are being warned to expect a stronger police presence on the roads.
The Maryland State Police say troopers from all 23 barracks will conduct increased patrols from Friday, March 13 through Tuesday, March 17, focusing on aggressive, distracted, and impaired driving. The effort includes the department’s Impaired Driving Reduction Effort team and will target roads where alcohol-related crashes are more common.
Extra patrols will be concentrated along Interstates 270, 70, and 81 in Frederick County, Washington County, and Carroll County.
Police are urging anyone celebrating to plan ahead by choosing a sober driver, avoiding alcohol if they plan to drive, and making sure friends who may be impaired do not get behind the wheel. Troopers also remind drivers to buckle up and avoid distractions like using a phone without hands-free capability.
Officials say party hosts should also be mindful, offering food and non-alcoholic drinks and taking away keys from anyone who may try to drive after drinking.
By: Dianah Gibson
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