How To Avoid a DUI This St. Patrick's Day

This St. Patty's Day is poised to be a great one in Georgia, with Atlanta turning green for the St. Patty's parade last Saturday and many more events and festivals coming to the state throughout the week. As kilts, Irish dancers, Guinness, corned beef and shamrocks sweep the area, it is important to stay cognizant of the dangers that can accompany jubilant holidays, and how you can promote a safe environment. St. Patrick's Day is one of most dangerous days of the year to be on the road. As countless revelers will be out and about, it is crucial that people decide on a safe transportation plan before they begin drinking, not during or after. Between 2011 and 2015, 252 people died in car crashes on St. Patrick's Day according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This year, the Administration is hammering the message "Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving.” In the past, they have funded an aggressive campaign against drinking and driving directed specifically at St. Patrick's Day.

St. Patrick's Day is in the ranks of New Year's Eve and Fourth of July when it comes to DUIs. Law enforcement around the country amps up DUI patrols over the holiday period, 6 pm March 16 - 6 am March 18, in an effort to curb drunk driving in their area. It would be decidedly unlucky if your St. Patty's Day celebration lands you in cuffs with a court date. It is in your interest and the interest of those around you to have a solid plan for this holiday.

One option to consider is a joint effort by Uber and MADD. The ride-sharing company is teaming up with MADD yet again to encourage everyone to celebrate safely and avoid a DUI on the 17th. Whether you're going to and from a parade, festival, bar or friend's house, services like Uber, Lyft, and taxis are great options to ensure you arrive safely at your destination. Demand does stiffly pick up during St. Patty's, especially around midday and again when bars and clubs close. Ride services usually plan for heavy business on days like this, but it is hard to foretell when they will run out of available drivers. Always have a backup plan. Prior to picking up your first green beer on Friday, make sure that your group's driver has been designated in case the ride services book up. Above all, do not get behind the wheel if you have been drinking. In addition, remember that walking while intoxicated can be extremely dangerous as well. Good planning, moderated drinking, and designated drivers are, as always, the key to having a safe night out.

Even with forward thinking plans and good intentions, it is not always possible to foresee the circumstances you will end up in. Everyone is entitled to skilled legal defense if they are charged with drunk driving. If you have received a DUI charge in Cherokee County, Georgia, contact Cherokee County DUI Attorney, Richard Lawson as soon as possible to begin a free consultation of your case.