For many Americans, St. Patrick’s Day has become a day of celebration. Unfortunately, March 17 has also become one of the deadliest days of the year due to drunk driving.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, on St. Patrick’s Day weekend from 2009 through 2013, there were 276 fatal auto accidents involving drunk drivers. Almost three quarters of drunk driving fatalities on St. Patrick’s Day involved drivers who drank enough to be twice the legal limit. Driving while impaired is never worth the risk. Not only do you risk seriously injuring or killing yourself or someone else, but the financial costs and long-term impact can be significant, including an arrest.
No amount of luck can save you from a drunk-driving accident, even on St. Patrick’s Day! Despite a day of national celebration, responsibility and restraint are key to keeping safe on the roads. Designate your sober driver before the party begins. If you drive to your celebration and become impaired, call a taxi, sober friend or family member, or use a form of public transportation.
Mark Bello is the CEO and General Counsel of Lawsuit Financial Corporation, a pro-justice lawsuit funding company.
