Police Chief: Don't Rely On Dumb Luck on St. Patrick's Day

For many people, St. Patrick's Day has become a popular night out to celebrate with friends and family. Unfortunately, due to the large number of drunk drivers, the night out also has become very dangers.

"Driving imparied is simply not worth the risk," said Lake Zurich Police Chief Patrick M. Finlon. "Not only do you risk killing yourself or someone else, but the trauma and financial costs of a crash or an arrest for driving while impaired can be really significant. Don't depend on dumb luck this St. Patrick's Day. Designate your sober driver before the party begins."

On St. Patrick's Day last year, 37 percent of the drivers and motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 or more, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

"Whether you are meeting a few friends at the local pub after work or attending a party, if you plan on using alcohol, never drive while impaired — and never let your friends drive if you thin they are impaired," said Finlon. "Friends don't let friends drive drunk."

There were 103 crash fatalities on St. Patrick's Day in 2009, according to the NHTSA. Out of those, 47 people were killed in traffic crashes that involved at least one driver or motorist with a BAC of more than 0.08.

Finlon recommends the following steps for a safe St. Patrick's Day:

• 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, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely;

• Use your community's Sober Rides program;

• If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don't hesitate to contact local law enforcement;

• If you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.