U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS – Each year, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated enthusiastically in the Virgin Islands. Unfortunately, it often ends with drunk drivers on the roadways when the celebrations end. Police Commissioner Ray Martinez understands that people are looking for a reason to celebrate and would like the community to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day. However, we also want to emphasize the importance of safe driving, and overall traffic safety.

Buzzed Driving is an ongoing problem in our community, especially around days like St. Patrick’s Day. VIOHS Director Daphnie O’Neal stated, “People need to know and understand that they can go out, enjoy themselves, and return home safely by ensuring they have a designated sober driver to take them home. Do not be the reason someone, including yourself, does not get home. Don’t let St. Patrick’s Day become an anniversary of a tragic night.”

If you plan to consume alcohol or have been drinking alcohol, make the right choice to find a sober driver to get you and your friends’ home safely. Before you put your keys in the ignition, remind yourself: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. Even one drink can be one too many.

If you are the designated sober driver, ensure that you do not drink so you can keep that promise of safety to yourself, your friends, and your passengers. It can be a long night, but your loved ones are counting on you; not to mention the other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians on the streets. Take the role of a designated sober driver seriously.

For more information on traffic safety, you may contact the Virgin Islands Office of Highway Safety through Director O’Neal at daphne.oneal@vipd.vi.gov, or Impaired Driving Coordinator K’ Tonya Petrus at k’tonya.petrus@vi.gov. You may also contact the office via telephone at (340) 772-3025.