Gov. Kathy Hochul warned New Yorkers to avoid driving under the influence as St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are held this weekend.

The governor says there will be severe consequences for those who get behind the wheel while drunk.

Drivers can expect to see more DWI patrols and sobriety checkpoints throughout the state who will ticket drivers that are under the influence of alcohol. Distracted drivers using their phones will also be fined.

The police will be checking stores, bars and restaurants for illegal alcohol sales and underage drinking.

The NYPD said they arrested more than 380 people for DWI last year.

Gov. Hochul said in a statement, “The tragedies caused by impaired driving are completely preventable if we all put safety first. We have zero tolerance for impaired driving, and I thank our state police and local law enforcement who will be out in force all weekend."

The New York State Police and the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee ask that before you start drinking this weekend, you designate a sober driver, use a ride share service or create a plan that could save a life.