It’s no secret that holidays are times for celebration, and as such, see a measurable spike in the number of alcohol-related arrests, drunk driving accidents, and injuries.
While many holidays see these increases, there are some that see more than others, especially holidays that are deeply and culturally associated with drinking. St. Patrick’s Day is a prime example of a “drinking holiday.”
As Saint Patrick’s Day has come to be a widely celebrated drinking holiday in the U.S., authorities across the country are well aware of the need to increase their enforcement efforts and their vigilance for motorists who may be driving under the influence. Historically, St. Patrick’s Day and the weekend prior have consistently recorded high rates of DUI arrests.
Take a look at some common St. Patrick’s DUI facts from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
- In 2012, 3 out of 4 people who died in crashes following St. Patrick’s Day celebrations died in drunk driving crashes.
- From 2008 – 2012, almost all of the drunk driving fatalities on St. Patrick’s Day occurred when the driver was two times the legal limit.
- From 2008 -2012, almost half the men killed on St. Patrick’s Day in crashes were killed in drunk driving crashes.
Consequences of Drinking and Driving
If you are caught drinking and driving on St. Patrick’s Day (or any day for that matter), the consequences can be severe. Depending on your state, you could face jail time, steep fines, license suspension or revocation, mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle, community service, and more. It’s just not worth it.
As with any other day, if you plan to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with alcoholic beverages, the safest choice is always to designate a sober driver and make sure everyone arrives at their destination safely. If you insist on drinking, be aware of your limits, and don’t get behind the wheel after having too much to drink. The consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol can be severe, so it’s important that you know your legal limit and abide by it.
How Can I Avoid DUIs and Other Drunk Driving Incidents?
- Plan ahead if attending a St. Patrick’s Day party and designate a sober driver or arrange for alternate transportation.
- Avoid drinking altogether or limit alcohol consumption to a safe and legal level.
- Be aware of your alcohol tolerance and the effects of mixing alcohol with medications or other substances.
- If you do drink, wait a sufficient amount of time before driving to ensure that your blood alcohol concentration is below the legal limit.
- Use public transportation or a ride service to get home safely.
How Shook & Stone Can Help?
Drinking and driving puts everyone at risk, and it is entirely preventable. At Shook & Stone, we would like to remind everyone about the importance of using a designated driver or finding a sober ride come St. Patrick’s Day weekend. Remember, drivers who cause accidents or injure others while under the influence can face criminal penalties. They can also be held accountable for causing preventable harm.
Throughout the years, our legal team has helped many victims and families navigate the personal injury claim process after being injured in a traffic accident, including accidents caused by impaired & drunk drivers. If you would like to discuss your case personally with a lawyer, contact Shook & Stone for a free case review.
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