WAILUKU, Hawaii (AP) - There will be more sobriety checkpoints and police patrols targeting impaired driving in Maui ahead of St. Patrick’s Day, authorities said.
Police began Friday conducting sobriety test checkpoints and increasing patrols with plans to continue measures through St. Patrick’s Day on Tuesday, the Maui News reported.
“Our goal is to promote voluntary compliance of all traffic laws and reduce motor vehicle crashes on our roadways,” the department said in a news release.
Legislation signed into law in December allows police to tow vehicles operated by drivers who are arrested for driving under the influence, driving without a license or driving after their license is suspended or revoked for impaired driving, authorities said.
People who have been drinking are encouraged to use ride-sharing or taxi services or call a sober friend or family member, police said.
Increased enforcement comes after events and holiday celebrations worldwide were upended by the coronavirus concerns.
The St. Patrick’s Day block party in downtown Honolulu was one of many events in the state to cancel this week.
New York, Chicago, Boston, and even the Irish capital of Dublin, have also canceled St. Patrick’s Day parades.
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