If you’re planning to don your “kiss me, I’m Irish” t-shirt and celebrate with a few pints this St. Patrick’s Day, it’s important to stay safe by not getting behind the wheel.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 31 people were killed in St. Patrick’s Day drinking and driving crashes in 2013. In 2016, there were over 44,000 DUI arrests in Pennsylvania and 364 drunk driving fatalities. If you’re going to consume any amount of alcohol this March 17, don’t mix it with driving, says Rand Spear Philadelphia car accident lawyer.
How to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day Safely
If your St. Patrick’s Day plans include alcohol, stay safe by sticking to a few basic guidelines:
- Arrange transportation ahead of time – Know exactly how you’re getting from point A to point B and everywhere in between before you even leave the house. If you can’t find a ride with a designated driver, use a ridesharing app like Uber to get home safely. You can always retrieve your own vehicle the following day.
- Don’t drink more than your limit – Most people are aware of how much alcohol they can tolerate without becoming completely intoxicated. Don’t push yourself past what is safe for your body. You should also drink plenty of water as you celebrate, as dehydration can heighten the effects of intoxication.
- Be a responsible friend – Keep an eye on friends and encourage them to return the favor. If you notice a buddy consuming too much alcohol, pull them aside and let them know it’s time to slow down. It’s easy to get caught up in a social situation that makes you lose track of how much alcohol you’re consuming. Sometimes, all it takes is a friendly warning from a friend to let you know you’re drinking too much.
If you spot a drunk driver while you’re out, you should also report the driver to the authorities. MADD cautions motorists to stay as far away from the suspected drunk driver as possible, and to avoid trying to pass the other motorist or force them off the road. Instead, copy down the license plate number (if you can do so without compromising your own safety), pull over, and call the police.
Were You Injured by a Drunk Driver?
Philadelphia car accident Injury lawyer Rand Spear explains, “Serious and deadly car accidents spike during certain times of the year, including St. Patrick’s Day. When people mix alcohol and driving, the results can be fatal. Don’t put yourself in harm’s way by getting behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking on St. Patrick’s Day. If you’re going to consume alcohol, team up with a designated driver or use a taxi or rideshare service.”
If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident caused by a drunk driver, protect your rights by getting in touch with a lawyer as soon as possible. Discuss your case with an experienced attorney today. Call Philadelphia car accident lawyer at (215) 985-2424. You can also call Rand Spear today at 1-877-GET-RAND.
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