If you’re thinking of putting on some green and tipping a few cold ones back this St. Patrick’s Day, you’re far from alone.
Roughly 54% of the people in this country indulge a little on the holiday, and more than 13 million pints of Guinness alone are consumed. Unfortunately, all the revelry and high spirits translate into a lot of drunk drivers out there on the road. If you don’t want to be among them, it’s time to make some plans.
What are the options when it comes time to get home?
First, the smartest thing you can do is leave your own car at home when you go out to celebrate. This will eliminate the temptation to shake off any “buzz” you may be feeling and try to drive.
Second, have a plan in place. You can:
- Preload the Uber or Lyft app onto your phone and load some cash onto the app. Program the app with your home address, so that you can easily (even if you’re inebriated) call for a ride.
- Investigate public transportation: Many bar districts and clubs are along bus routes, and commercial cabs can be plentiful. You can look on your local community boards to see if there are any “free rides” for celebrants available. Those are common in urban areas during drinking holidays.
- Have a designated driver: If you have a friend or a relative who is willing to ferry you to the local celebration point and either go with you (but stay sober) or pick you up when you’re ready to come home.
Ultimately, the key to avoiding a drunk driving accident on St. Patrick’s Day (and any other day) is to celebrate responsibly. Enjoy the festivities, but focus on your safety and the safety of others. By making smart choices and planning ahead, you can ensure that your St. Patrick’s Day celebration remains memorable for all the right reasons.
If you end up in a wreck with a less-than-sober celebrant, the key to maximizing your compensation is experienced legal guidance.
