KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - Today, Public Health - Seattle & King County, the King County Traffic Safety Coalition, and the Eastside DUI Task Force announced that most communities in King County will have extra traffic patrols out on Saint Patrick's Day. The officers working these patrols will look for dangerous motorists, particularly intoxicated or aggressive drivers.

"Saint Patrick's Day is an exciting celebration of Irish heritage," said King County Executive Ron Sims. "Keep this year's Irish week events festive with responsible driving."

In Washington State, St. Patrick's Day is one of the most dangerous driving days of the year. From 1993 to 2001, police in Washington made 1,197 alcohol-related traffic arrests on Saint Patrick's Day. For the same period, King County officers and troopers arrested 318 motorists for these types of offenses on Saint Patrick's Day.

"Sport the shamrock and your seatbelt on Saint Pat's Day," said Dr. Alonzo Plough, Director of Public Health - Seattle & King County. "If you indulge in green beer or other spirits, use a taxi or bus for transportation. Otherwise, ride only with a sober driver."

During 2003 traffic safety emphasis patrols, officers from King County communities reported 3,060 contacts with dangerous drivers and reported arresting 1,096 impaired drivers.

"On Wednesday, officers from Shoreline to Auburn will be searching for drunken motorists. If you drink and drive, even a touch of the blarney won't keep you from jail," said King County Sheriff Dave Reichert.

Moreover, if you are arrested for impaired driving and have your pet in the car, King County Animal Control officers will impound your animal. Police officers from Auburn, Federal Way, Shoreline, Tukwila, Burien, Renton, Woodinville, Maple Valley, Kirkland, Bellevue, Issaquah, Medina, Snoqualmie, Redmond, Seattle, Mercer Island and Washington State Patrol will participate in St. Patrick's Day patrols.

Reporters and camera crews who wish to ride along with a law enforcement officer may make arrangements by calling 206-205-3331 before 3 p.m. on March 17th.

King County Traffic Safety Coalition

The King County Traffic Safety Coalition is staffed by Public Health- Seattle & King County. Members include representatives from law enforcement agencies from across King County, the Eastside DUI Task Force, the WA Liquor Control Board, DUI victims' groups, traffic engineers, non-profit organizations, and others. Funding for the Coalition comes from the Washington State Traffic Safety Commission.

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