Golden State Today

St. Patrick's Day is approaching, a time often associated with festivities and alcohol consumption. The Goleta Police Department is emphasizing the importance of safety during this holiday by urging individuals to avoid driving under the influence. They encourage everyone to plan ahead for a sober way home.

In 2022, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 74 drunk-driving fatalities during the St. Patrick’s Day holiday alone. Drunk driving accounted for more than 13,500 preventable deaths throughout that year, representing 32% of all traffic fatalities in the United States.

To ensure a safe celebration, the Goleta Police Department offers several tips:

- Designate a Sober Driver: Choose someone in advance who will abstain from alcohol to ensure everyone's safe return.

- Use Ride-Sharing Services or Public Transportation: These are effective alternatives if you have been drinking.

- Look Out for Others: Prevent friends or family from driving impaired by taking their keys and arranging a sober ride.

- Stay Alert: Be vigilant for impaired drivers on the road and report them by calling 911.

The department also highlights that impairment can result not only from alcohol but also from prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cannabis products, and other substances. If you plan on consuming any of these or using medications with a warning against driving, it is advisable to let someone sober take the wheel.

Goleta receives its police services through a contract with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office.