OHP: Designate A Driver For St. Patrick's Day Celebrations

The Oklahoma Highway Safety Office is urging those who celebrate St. Patrick's Day to include a designated non-drinking driver in their holiday planning.

"Alcohol is often part of the festivities on St. Patrick's Day," said Alice Collinsworth, OHSO communications manager. "It's essential to choose a non-drinking driver or to make arrangements for public transportation before the party begins."

Law enforcement officers across the state will be on the lookout for impaired drivers on the roads. In fact, agencies in the Tulsa and Oklahoma City metro areas will be teaming up to carry out bar checks, saturation patrols and other projects to crack down on impaired driving.

"With the holiday falling on a Saturday this year, it's likely that more people will be partying," Collinsworth said. "We want everyone to get home safely."

One alternative means of transportation is AAA Oklahoma's Tipsy Tow service, available from noon on Saturday, March 17 through 2 a.m. Sunday, March 18. Tipsy Tow is available in the metro Oklahoma City and Tulsa areas, as well as in Bartlesville, Lawton, Muskogee, Enid and Shawnee.

Tipsy Tow personnel will take the driver home, as well as tow his or her car, within a 15-mile radius from pickup to home. Anyone may use the free Tipsy Tow service by calling (800) 222-4357.