St. Patrick’s Day is not until Tuesday, March 17. But festivities are already underway and drinking is a frequent part of those celebrations. That pattern has created a serious safety risk in prior years, according to PennDOT, accounting for 196 alcohol-related crashes in the state between 2010 and 2014, including four fatalities.
Ramped up DUI task forces will be on the lookout for impaired drivers statewide from March 13 to March 21. And this year, the penalties will be increased – particularly for repeat offenders. Anyone with a prior DUI conviction within the past ten years will not only have their license suspended for a year, they will also be required to have a breathalyzer ignition interlock installed on any vehicle they own or lease before they can even apply for restoration of their license. If the device detects any alcohol on the operator’s breath, the vehicle won’t start.