(Photo by NHTSA)

Law enforcement will be stepping up patrols and targeting drug-impaired driving today.

The State Police, Department of Motor Vehicles, and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee remind motorists that driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol, including cannabis, is not only dangerous, it is illegal in New York State

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said if you’re planning to consume cannabis, do not drive. Designate a sober driver who won’t be consuming or use public transportation or a ride-sharing service.

According to NHTSA, between 2009 and 2018, of those drivers killed in crashes and tested, the presence of cannabis had nearly doubled.

In 2018, 46 percent of drivers who were killed in crashes and were tested for drugs, tested positive.

In every U.S. state and territory, it is illegal to drive under the influence of drugs — no exceptions.

Chautauqua County Sheriff Jim Quattrone said, “We understand people are looking for a reason to celebrate, and we want our community members to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day, but we also want to impress upon everyone the importance of safe driving. If you’ve been drinking, make the right choice to find a sober driver to get you and your friends home safely.”

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 10,142 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes in 2019. During the 2019 St. Patrick’s Day period, almost half of crash fatalities involved a drunk driver.

Drivers should also keep an eye out for pedestrians who have had too much to drink. Walking while intoxicated can also be deadly, as lack of attention to their surroundings could put pedestrians at risk of getting hit by a vehicle.

Police say even if you’ve had only one alcoholic beverage you should designate a sober driver or a ride service to get home safely.

If you see a drunk driver on the road, contact your local law enforcement office or call 911.