The Indiana State Police and local law enforcement agencies are teaming up to crack down on aggressive and impaired drivers during the month of March.
ISP Superintendent Doug Carter says March Madness and St. Patrick’s Day are festive occasions, and the law enforcement community wants to ensure they are celebrated safely.
The increased patrols are supported by federal funding allocated to the state police from the Traffic Safety Division of the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI). Troopers will work overtime to conduct observational patrols and sobriety checkpoints around the clock.
Last March in Indiana there were 495 alcohol-related crashes, resulting in 231 injuries and 11 fatalities. Additionally, during the same period, crash reports indicate 1,128 collisions occurred due to dangerous driving, resulting in 260 injuries and two fatalities. Dangerous driving includes factors such as speed too fast for weather conditions, distracted and fatigued driving.
Crashes resulting from dangerous and impaired driving are preventable. The Indiana State Police and ICJI encourage revelers to plan a safe way home before the celebration begins. Do not drive impaired, and call 911 if you see a drunk driver on the road. Also, if you know someone is about to drive or ride under the influence, take their keys and help make arrangements to get them home safely.
