As folks get ready to put on their green and celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day this weekend, officials are reminding Kentuckians: buzzed driving is drunk driving.
“In the wake of the upcoming Saint Patrick’s Day holiday, I want to remind those who choose to consume alcohol to please do so responsibly, and have a sober driver in place prior to taking the first sip of their green beverage of choice,” said Elizabethtown Police Department Public Information Officer Chris Denham.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet says alcohol consumption at Saint Patrick’s Day is higher than average, which means the risk of dangerous situations on roadways is increased. The KYTC says over the past three years 43 crashes due to a drunk driver have been reported across the commonwealth on Saint Patrick’s Day, resulting in 24 injuries and six deaths.
If you are planning on consuming alcohol, always designate a driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride service to get home safely. If you have friends that are drinking, take away their keys and help them make arrangements to get home safely. If you think you see an impaired driver on the road, contact law enforcement. Visit the KYTC on the web for more tips and information.