March 9, 2026
DES MOINES, Iowa - The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau (GTSB) wants drivers to remember: Safe Driving Takes More Than Luck.
St. Patrick’s Day is known for its themed celebrations, but all of the parades and festivities often lead to higher levels of alcohol consumption. While most Iowans celebrate safely, impaired driving is still a present danger, especially around holidays. Last March, 148 crashes and five fatalities* listed impairment as a contributing factor. It takes more than luck to stay safe on the road- it takes safe and smart decisions.
To help Iowans plan ahead and stay safe, Doll Distributing is offering a $10 Uber voucher through their Decide to Ride program. GTSB supports this program by raising awareness and sharing resources for sober rides. The voucher will be active March 14-17, 2026, in the state of Iowa, and will be capped at 1,000 redemptions.
GTSB is encouraging law enforcement partners to conduct their own enforcement projects in their communities during this holiday to deter impaired driving and ensure everyone can celebrate safely.
“Planning ahead is essential so that a day of fun doesn’t turn into a tragic event due to one decision. Designate a sober driver, call a taxi, or use a rideshare service. It’s that easy to keep yourself and others safe," says GTSB Bureau Chief Brett Tjepkes. "If you're on the road and see a driver that may be impaired, don't hesitate to call and report it to law enforcement. It might be the call that saves someone's life."
St. Patrick’s Day events and celebrations also tend to attract increased pedestrian traffic. GTSB also reminds drivers to stay alert and watch for pedestrians, especially in crowded areas. If you’re on foot, be sure to cross streets in well-lit areas, use the crosswalks, and stay alert for vehicles.
The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau works with city, county, state, and local organizations to develop and implement strategies to reduce deaths and injuries on Iowa’s roadways using federally funded grants.
Source: Iowa Crash Analysis Tool
ABOUT THE IOWA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
The Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the largest law enforcement agency in the state. It includes seven divisions and several bureaus, all working together with local, state, and federal government agencies and the private sector to keep Iowa a safe place by following our core values: leadership, integrity, professionalism, courtesy, service, and protection. Divisions within the Iowa DPS: Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Iowa State Patrol, Iowa State Fire Marshal Division, Iowa Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center, Professional Development and Support Services Division, and Administrative Services Division. The Department of Public Safety is led by the Commissioner who is appointed by the Governor.
Iowa Department of Public Safety
215 E. 7th St.
Des Moines, IA 50319
215 E 7th St
Des Moines, IA 50319