If you plan on celebrating with family or friends this St. Patrick’s Day, please make sure that you or someone you know is not leaving the party in their vehicle while under the influence so as to prevent a serious auto accident. There are several options available to Las Vegas drivers on holidays. You could appoint your own designated driver, such as a sober friend or family member. Or you can pay a designated driver to drive you home by calling Designated Drivers Inc. at (702) 456-7433.
If you would like a free ride, call AAA’s Tipsy Tow at 1(800) 222-4357. You do not have to be a AAA member to utilize this free service. AAA offers a free five-mile tow home for drinking drivers and their vehicles. The service is available also to passengers, party hosts, bartenders, and restaurant managers. Or, if you need a ride, just call a cab or remain at the location of the party, if possible, until you sober up.
Remember, driving under the influence is a choice. By making the choice to drive under the influence, drivers put themselves, their passengers, and others on the roadway at great risk. St. Patrick’s Day is one of the most dangerous times of the year for travelers and commuters. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2009, 37 percent of motorists involved in fatal car accidents had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher. Also, in 2009, there were 103 car accident deaths on St. Patrick’s Day.
St. Patrick’s Day Safety Tips
First and foremost, it is important to understand that drunk driving is a serious offense that can result in injury, death, and legal consequences. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drunk driving causes more than 10,000 deaths each year in the United States. This is why it is critical to avoid drinking and driving on St. Patrick’s Day or any other day.
On St. Patrick’s Day, many people go out to bars and parties to celebrate. Unfortunately, some of these people may not realize how much alcohol they have consumed, which can impair their ability to drive safely. Alcohol slows down the brain’s ability to process information and can impair judgment, reaction time, and vision. This can make it difficult to react to unexpected situations on the road, such as sudden stops or turns.
Moreover, the increased traffic on St. Patrick’s Day can make it more dangerous to drink and drive. Many people are out on the roads, which can lead to traffic congestion, road rage, and accidents. The risk of accidents is even higher on St. Patrick’s Day because many drivers may be impaired or distracted. This can increase the likelihood of collisions, injuries, and fatalities.
It is also important to note that law enforcement agencies often increase their efforts to catch drunk drivers on St. Patrick’s Day. They may set up sobriety checkpoints or increase patrols in areas where people are likely to be drinking. If you are caught driving under the influence, you may face serious consequences, such as fines, license suspension, and even jail time. You could also be held liable for any injuries or damages caused by the accident.
So how can you stay safe on St. Patrick’s Day? Here are some tips:
- Plan ahead. If you plan on drinking, make sure to have a designated driver or arrange for a taxi or ride-sharing service to take you home.
- Pace yourself. If you do decide to drink, make sure to pace yourself and drink water in between alcoholic beverages. This can help you avoid getting too drunk and impairing your ability to drive safely.
- Stay alert. Keep an eye out for other drivers who may be impaired or driving recklessly. Avoid confrontations with aggressive drivers and report any dangerous driving behavior to the police.
- Use public transportation. Consider using public transportation, such as buses or trains, to get to and from your destination. This can help you avoid driving altogether and ensure that you get home safely.
- Host a sober party. If you plan on hosting a party, consider providing non-alcoholic beverages and snacks for your guests. This can help to create a safe and sober environment for everyone.
This St. Patrick’s Day, please do not become a statistic. Please do not drink and drive. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a DUI collision, the Las Vegas drunk driving accident lawyers at Shook & Stone can help you better understand your legal rights and options following a crash. Please contact us at 702-570-0000 for a free, comprehensive and confidential consultation.
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