State Patrol: 'Don't Count On Luck To Keep You Safe'

In an effort to reduce alcohol-related crashes, the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) will crack down on impaired drivers as part of its St. Patrick’s Day special enforcement effort.

Troopers and communication specialists with NSP will put in overtime hours on St. Patrick’s Day, Tuesday, March 17 in an effort to gain voluntary compliance with all traffic safety laws as they work to keep Nebraska roads safe. The overtime funding is provided thanks in part to a $5,367.50 grant from the Nebraska Office of Highway Safety (NOHS).

"We want everyone to enjoy their St. Patrick’s Day in a safe, fun, responsible manner,” said Acting Nebraska State Patrol Superintendent, Lt. Colonel Thomas Schwarten. “It only takes one bad decision to ruin your life or someone else’s. If you plan to celebrate make sure you have a designated driver.”

Report impaired drivers to 911 or call the Nebraska State Patrol Highway Helpline when safe to do so at *55 from any cellular phone or 1-800-525-5555 from any landline.

Lt. Col. Schwarten said, “Don’t count on luck to keep you safe. Make the responsible choice and never drive impaired.”

Special enforcement efforts could include high visibility patrols, multi-agency sobriety checkpoints, and DUI selectives.

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