State of Maryland - Beginning Friday, Maryland State Police will heighten their patrols and enforcement efforts throughout the St. Patrick's Day weekend, targeting impaired, aggressive, and distracted driving. Troopers from all 23 barracks will work on roads known for high DUI incidents from Friday through Sunday, with the assistance of funds from the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration's Highway Safety Office.

The State Police Impaired Driving Reduction Effort (SPIDRE) team, a unit specifically trained to identify impaired drivers, will also be on duty during this period. SPIDRE, funded by a grant from the MDOT MVA Highway Safety Office, is committed to reducing alcohol-related injuries and fatalities in Maryland.

The safety campaign will partner with allied law enforcement and other state agencies for enforcement and community outreach through social media and billboards. Areas of focus will include Allegany County, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Caroline, Dorchester and Talbot counties, Carroll County, Cecil County, Charles County, Frederick County, Garrett County, Montgomery County, Prince George's County, Wicomico County, and Worcester County.

Local authorities urge motorists to avoid impaired, aggressive, and distracted driving and offer the following advice for those celebrating over St. Patrick's Day weekend:

If attending a St. Patrick's Day event, designate a sober driver, consider using public transportation, do not let intoxicated friends drive, and call the police if an impaired driver is observed. Always buckle up and avoid distractions while driving.

For those hosting a St. Patrick's Day event, remember that you could be held liable for any impaired driving crash involving someone you served alcohol to. Provide plenty of food and non-alcoholic beverages, ensure sober transportation options are available, have contact information for local taxi companies at hand, and be ready to confiscate keys from any attendee planning to drive while impaired.

The Maryland State Police's initiative emphasizes the importance of safety and responsibility during holiday celebrations. Its aim is to significantly reduce incidents related to impaired driving and ensure a safe and enjoyable St. Patrick's Day weekend for all Maryland residents.