A new year has begun and St. Patrick’s Day is already here! St. Patty’s means all things green – green beer, green sweets, and all the Irish food! Even with COVID-19 restrictions, there are sure to be St. Patrick’s Day events around the Marietta and Cobb County communities.
Unfortunately, statistics show an increase in the risk of being involved in a car, truck or auto accident due to impaired driving on St. Patrick’s Day. Whether you have plans this St. Patty’s day to get out and celebrate, or you’ll be on Georgia roadways for another reason, it’s important to plan safety measures for your safety and those around you.
Here are a few tips on how you can stay safe and plan ahead for St. Patrick’s Day roadway dangers:
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Designate a driver.
This may seem fairly obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people think they can have a few drinks and still be ok to get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle. Not only is it illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol, but it’s one of the most dangerous types of auto accidents as well. Technology makes driving services like Uber or Lyft readily available, especially for holidays such as St. Patty’s – use them. -
Have alternate plans in place.
Are all Uber’s full? Can’t find a Lyft nearby? Alerting a friend or family member before you go out to celebrate so they can be your emergency designated driver is an excellent plan of action. If that’s not an option, grab a hotel room for the night. There are a variety of other safe driving alternatives in the metro Atlanta area. It’s always good to have a back up plan in mind before leaving home to celebrate. -
Stay alert and keep an eye on your friends.
Make sure your friends do not drive drunk either. If you have to take their keys and help them find a way to get home, do so. It may not only safe their life, but the lives of other innocent people on Georgia roadways as well. -
Have fun at home.
Are you planning on staying home this St. Patrick’s Day? That doesn’t mean you can’t have fun! Order some green food coloring and celebrate in the St. Patrick’s Day spirit with your family and friends! There will be plenty of food delivery services available as well – so support your local restaurants by ordering green foods delivered to your door.
Every day, about 28 people in the United States die from a drunk-driving accident. That equates to one person every 52 minutes. To learn more about the risks of drunk driving, check out this article from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. We urge you to stay safe and plan ahead this St. Patty’s Day!