St. Patrick’s Day Enforcement: ‘Booze It & Lose It’ Campaign Runs March 16-22
Statewide law enforcement will conduct increased patrols to deter impaired driving
RALEIGH – As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, law enforcement agencies and traffic safety professionals across the state are reminding drivers to celebrate responsibly.
From March 16-22, officers will increase patrols statewide as part of the “Booze It & Lose It” campaign aimed at preventing impaired driving and keeping roads safe. The N.C. Governor’s Highway Safety Program will be conducting additional public outreach via social media to reinforce these important safety messages.
With St. Patrick’s Day celebrations often involving alcohol, officials are urging drivers to plan ahead and make safe, responsible choices before getting behind the wheel.
“This should be a time to safely celebrate with friends and family, but never at the cost of someone’s life,” said GHSP Director Mark Ezzell. “Our message is simple: if you plan to drink, then plan accordingly for a sober ride home. Otherwise, you could face serious consequences.”
During the 2025 St. Patrick’s Day alcohol enforcement campaign, law enforcement agencies across North Carolina issued 738 DWI citations. In 2025, there were 343 alcohol-related fatalities and 91 drug-related fatalities on North Carolina roads. Early data from NCDOT indicates there have been 13 alcohol-involved crash fatalities statewide in 2026.
“These tragic deaths are 100% preventable when drivers make responsible choices,” said Ezzell. “Taking a few minutes to plan for a sober ride home before consuming impairing substances can save the lives of many.”
The “Booze It & Lose It” campaign is part of state’s ongoing effort to reduce alcohol-related crashes and fatalities.
