For
many Americans, St. Patrick's Day has become a popular opportunity to
celebrate with friends and family. Unfortunately,
due to drunk drivers, the festivities have also become very dangerous.
The
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that over 700
people were killed nationwide in crashes involving a drunk driver during
St. Patrick's Day holidays from 2006 to 2010. During 2010 alone, 129 lives
were lost.
Following these steps, drivers
can enjoy a safe and festive holiday without
jeopardizing their lives and the lives of others who may be on the road:
- Plan a safe way home before the
festivities begin.
- Before drinking, designate a sober driver and
leave your car keys at home.
- If you're impaired, call a sober friend or
family member to get home safely.
- If you see a drunk driver on the road, contact
your local law enforcement.
- And remember, if you know someone who is about
to drive impaired or ride with someone who is impaired, help your friend make
other arrangements. If a friend is drunk and wants to drive, don't let it
happen, even if it means taking the keys away.
For more information, visit www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov.
