Ensuring the safety of pedestrians, cyclists and motorists and maintaining the safe and orderly flow of traffic is the primary mission of the Police Department’s Special Operations Section. As part of the Department’s traffic safety program, the Special Operation Section works with other County agencies and community members to address areas of concern. Resources are deployed based on the following priorities: Accident Reduction, School Zone Safety, Bike/Pedestrian Safety and other areas of concern as identified by citizens.
Monthly Transportation Safety Highlight: Don't Push Your Luck this St. Patrick's Day
Although Irish in its roots, St. Patrick’s Day is known to be widely celebrated in the United States. This year, St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Friday which means more people will be out celebrating, and, unfortunately, some will make the dangerous decision to get behind the wheel after drinking. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 11,654 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes across the United States in 2020. That’s why the Arlington County Police Department is encouraging St. Patrick’s Day celebrators to plan ahead with a sober ride home -- whether it’s by using a ridesharing service, taxi, public transportation, or designated sober driver.
The Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP), in partnership with Lyft, will be offering free rides from 4:00 p.m. on Friday, March 17, 2023, until 4:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 18, 2023, as part of their 2023 St. Patrick’s Day SoberRide® program. For additional information on WRAP’s program to ensure area residents have a safe way home on high-risk holidays, visit their website.