KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - Today, Public Health - Seattle & King County and the King County Traffic Safety Coalition announced that law enforcement officers from all over King County will be out in strength searching for St. Patrick's Day revelers who drive dangerously. From Friday March 14th through Monday March 17th, officers will scour King County roads and remove drivers who speed, drive after drinking or taking drugs, or break other traffic laws.

"Celebrating Irish heritage and culture should be safe and festive, and we don't want anybody hurt this weekend," said King County Executive Ron Sims. According to Washington State data, St. Patrick's Day is one of the most hazardous driving days of the year.

"Your four leaf clover this weekend is buckling-up, driving sober, completely stopping for red lights and stop signs, and driving the speed limit," said Dr. Alonzo Plough, Director of Public Health - Seattle & King County.

Since 2000 during St. Patrick's Day traffic safety emphasis patrols, police in King County have had 490 contacts with unsafe drivers and arrested 72 people for driving under the influence. "If you drive dangerously this St. Patrick's Day, even the luck of the Irish will not save you from a ticket or arrest," said Lieutenant Ed Fadler, Traffic Unit Supervisor for the Federal Way Police Department.

Additionally, if you are arrested and have a pet with you, King County Animal Control officers must impound your animal and bring it to a shelter for safekeeping.

Law enforcement agencies across King and Pierce Counties will participate in St. Patrick's Day patrols. In Seattle, the Police Department will have special patrols out March 14th, 15th, and 17th.

Reporters and camera crews who wish to ride along with a law enforcement officer may make arrangements by calling (206) 205-3331 before 4 p.m. on March 14th or 17th.

King County Traffic Safety Coalition

The King County Traffic Safety Coalition coordinates traffic safety patrols. This Coalition is chaired by Public Health - Seattle & King County and includes local law enforcement agencies, health and traffic safety educators, traffic safety engineers, liquor control agents, and representatives of victims groups. The Washington Traffic Safety Commission provides partial support and funding for traffic safety efforts in King County.