Safe Driving Tips for St. Patrick’s Day - Avoid DUI in NH

Safe Driving Habits for St. Patrick’s Day

Every 17th of March, the Irish as well as Irish-at-heart celebrate the patron saint of Ireland. The holiday began as a religious feast day and has now turned in to a cultural celebration where individuals enjoy beer, special foods, parades and the color green. Celebrations can easily get out of hand when there is alcohol involved, meaning individuals must ensure they remain safe while enjoying the holiday. Learning safe driving habits is key to enjoying St. Patrick’s Day while remaining secure. Below are a few tips to help you stay clear of any unnecessary accidents during parades or a night out on the town.

Plan Your Evening

To get started, you will need to plan your evening. Several states around the US offer St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, including New Hampshire. Find local parades, festivals and restaurants who may be offering festivities. You may find local pubs and bars offering a pub crawl or unique drinks to celebrate the holiday that you may like to try. Figure out what you wish to do so you have a solid plan for the evening.

Designated Driver 

Once you know where you want to go, you need to figure out how you will get there. If you will be drinking, consider finding a designated driver. You want to avoid getting a DUI or your friends getting a DUI in New Hampshire. Take the time to find a friend or family member who might want to go out for the holiday and be willing to drive. Offer to pay for food or drinks, even gas, so that the designated driver can be compensated for not getting to drink during the festivities.

Alternative Transportation

If everyone in your party plans on drinking, you will need to find an alternative form of transportation. No one needs to drive after drinking, even having just one beer. You do not want to end up in the drunk tank at the local jail, charged with a DUI. Consider hiring a taxi to pick you up and take you to the venue of choice or perhaps ride in style with a limo. Depending on where you live, you should have at least one or two options to help you move about town. Driving services such as Uber can assist you with transportation as well. Even local bus or shuttle service can be beneficial.

Celebrate at Home

If you really want to stay safe and still have a good time, consider staying in. You can purchase decorations, cook specialty foods and even use food coloring to make beer green. Drink as much as you like with no worry about getting in trouble with the police and having a DUI on record. You will be safe and secure, having fun at home. Invite family and friends over, either finding them transportation home or offering your home for the night so they too can remain free and clear of any DUI charges.

Overall, it is important to plan the evening and stay safe. Make smart decisions so you will not regret the night later!

By Joseph Annutto

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