Quincy Police Department asks for you to plan before you party on St. Patrick’s Day

QUINCY — St. Patrick’s Day is almost here, and many Illinoisans will be celebrating with parades and parties featuring green beer and cocktails. To remind motorists of the dangers of drunk driving and to help keep our streets safe, the Quincy Police Department is teaming up with the Illinois State Police and Illinois Department of Transportation for a stepped-up traffic safety campaign.

“Because St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Sunday this year, we anticipate that alcohol consumption will increase both that day and throughout the weekend,” Sgt. Ryan Witt said in a press release. “We ask everyone to celebrate responsibly, starting with a plan for a sober ride home before you leave the house.”

St. Patrick’s Day can be a dangerous one on America’s roads due to increased alcohol consumption. Drunk-driving crashes led to 272 lives lost during the St. Patrick’s Day holiday between 2017 and 2021.

In addition to looking for alcohol- and cannabis-impaired drivers, the Quincy Police Department will be stepping up seat belt enforcement, particularly at night when seat belt usage rates are lowest. Speeding, distracted driving and all traffic laws will be strictly enforced.