St. Patrick’s Day is one of the oldest holidays observed in America. Over the years, it has turned into as much a celebration of green beer and whiskey as it is of Irish heritage. As such, the festivities often lead to a great deal of alcohol consumption. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drunk-driving accidents contributed to 60 fatalities during the 2016 holiday. In turn, law enforcement spends much of the day and night looking out for DUI drivers. Thus, it’s important to be responsible in your own celebrations and make sure safety is your top priority. Here are a few tips for enjoying yourself without putting anyone in danger.

How to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day Safely 

1. Plan Ahead 

If you know you will be drinking, plan ahead so there is no reason to take your car out and risk getting a DUI. Make sure the Uber and Lyft apps are downloaded on your phone and you have the number of a local taxi service saved before you head out to partake in the festivities. You should also check that you have plenty of cash on hand to pay for a ride home, if necessary, and ensure your phone is fully charged. 

2. Select a Designated Driver 

When going out with a group, choose a designated driver who will remain sober for the duration of the evening. It’s also a good idea to have a backup plan should your designated driver suddenly decide they want to participate in the fun. Whatever your transportation arrangements are, make sure no one in your party gets behind the wheel after consuming alcohol to avoid a potential DUI. 

3. Be Extra Cautious When Driving  

Even if you’re the designated driver, or you don’t plan to join in the celebration, it’s essential to take extra precautions when navigating the roads on St. Patrick’s Day, as there could be drunk drivers all around you. Stay aware of your surroundings and closely monitor other motorists nearby. If anyone appears to be driving erratically, put plenty of space between you. 

In the unfortunate event you run into legal trouble this St. Patrick’s Day, it’s imperative you speak with a defense attorney right away. At the Kratovil Law Offices, PLLC, an experienced team of professionals is available to ensure your rights are protected. For more than 40 years, they have been handling DUI cases throughout the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia and is known for providing effective representation and sound advice. When facing such serious consequences as those associated with drunk driving, you can count on this law office to aggressively fight your charges. Call (304) 728-7718 to schedule a consultation or visit them online for more information on how they can benefit your case.