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NJ State Police Boost Patrols For St. Patrick's Day

TRENTON, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- New Jersey state police say more than 120 extra troopers will be out on patrol this weekend, looking closely for drunk and reckless drivers as residents celebrate St. Patrick's Day.

Troopers also will be watching for drivers who violate the state's ban on using hand-held cell phones or the recently enacted "Move Over'' law. The latter measure requires drivers to move over one lane or, if that's not possible, slow down when they come upon stationary emergency vehicles or tow trucks with flashing emergency lights.

Division of Highway Traffic Safety Acting Director Gary Poedubicky is also urging revelers to stay off the roads if they're planning to drink this weekend.

"There's simply no excuse for drinking and driving. If you plan to attend a St. Patrick's Day celebration at a local restaurant, tavern or residence, make sure you have a designated driver before heading out," Poedubicky said in a statement. "You'll not only be ensuring your safety, but the safety of everyone else who is sharing the road with you."

Poedubicky says last year, there were five fatalities on New Jersey roads during the St. Patrick's Day weekend.

(TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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