Law enforcement agencies around the state plan to step-up enforcement during the month of March to deter aggressive and drunk driving.
According to information provided by the Indiana State Police, the blitz will begin on March 4th and last until March 27th. Basketball tournaments and St. Patrick’s Day are cited as the primary reasons for the increased patrols.
The Indiana Criminal Justice Institute says there were 529 alcohol-related crashes in the state during March of 2015. Of those, five crashes were fatal. Indiana State Police Superintendent Doug Carter says that with the ongoing celebrations during March, he encourages drivers not to use it as an excuse to get behind the wheel while impaired.
State Police offer a few tips to ensure safety during times of celebration, including: planning a safe way home, using a taxi, ridesharing, or designated driver, and calling 911 if a drunk driver is spotted.
High visibility patrols will be part of the enforcement period.
