Fifty-four law enforcement agencies in the state plan intense drunk driver patrols throughout the St. Patrick's Day holiday weekend, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation.

The special DUI enforcement period starts 6 p.m. Friday and continues through 3 a.m. on Monday.

"St. Patrick’s Day has become a big party night, especially for young people. With the holiday falling on a Saturday night this year, we are concerned that impaired driving and alcohol-related traffic deaths could increase," said Pam Hutton, CDOT Chief Engineer.

"Drinking and driving is a crime and not worth the risk. Not only could you kill yourself or someone else, but the trauma and financial costs for you and your family are significant."

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics indicate 59 percent of the traffic deaths that occurred in 2005 during the evening of St. Patrick's Day to the early hours of the following morning, involved impaired drivers.

As part of the campaign this year, CDOT has partnered with the Colorado Restaurant Association to encourage and recognize sober drivers at restaurants and bars statewide. More than 1,500 restaurants will be distributing "Kiss Me, I'm Sober" stickers to customers who identify themselves as being a designated driver for the day or evening.

Last year, law enforcement agencies arrested 465 suspected drunk drivers in three nights.