‘Booze It & Lose It’ campaign launches statewide ahead of St. Patrick’s Day

RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — Law enforcement agencies across North Carolina will increase patrols this week as part of the state’s “Booze It & Lose It” campaign aimed at preventing impaired driving during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

The enforcement campaign runs March 16–22, with officers conducting additional patrols statewide to deter impaired driving and keep roads safe, according to the N.C. Governor’s Highway Safety Program.

Officials say St. Patrick’s Day festivities often involve alcohol, and they are urging drivers to plan ahead before getting behind the wheel.

“This should be a time to safely celebrate with friends and family, but never at the cost of someone’s life,” GHSP Director Mark Ezzell said in a statement. “Our message is simple: if you plan to drink, then plan accordingly for a sober ride home. Otherwise, you could face serious consequences.”

During the 2025 St. Patrick’s Day enforcement campaign, law enforcement agencies across North Carolina issued 738 DWI citations.

According to state data, there were 343 alcohol-related traffic deaths and 91 drug-related fatalities on North Carolina roads in 2025. Early data from the N.C. Department of Transportation shows 13 alcohol-involved crash fatalities statewide so far in 2026.

“These tragic deaths are 100% preventable when drivers make responsible choices,” Ezzell said. “Taking a few minutes to plan for a sober ride home before consuming impairing substances can save the lives of many.”