St. Patrick’s Day is the time of year when friends and families gather to celebrate their Irish heritage. Even if you are not Irish, it is one of those holidays that is made for a party. Any time there is partying or revelry, it is likely that alcoholic beverages will be served and consumed. According to Alcohol Alert, there were a total of 738 traffic accidents in the state of Oklahoma of which 265 involved an intoxicated driver. Also, 32 percent of drivers involved in Oklahoma DUI (driving under the influence) collisions had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher.
Drunk drivers, in addition to facing criminal charges, can also be held civilly liable for the injuries and damages they cause to Oklahoma car crash victims. DUI collisions can result in major injuries or even fatalities. On holidays such as St. Patrick’s Day, the risk for a DUI crash increases significantly.
If you do not have to be on the roadway, it is better to avoid driving on St. Patrick’s Day. If you must drive, please remain vigilant and be on the lookout for drivers who are speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, or otherwise driving recklessly. If you spot an intoxicated driver, please inform the authorities right away. You could be saving lives by doing so.
This St. Patrick’s Day, please do not drink and drive. If you are hosting a party, please make sure that no one gets behind the wheel while under the influence. Offer to drive them if you are sober, or call them a cab. Take car keys away from friends and ask that they remain at your home until they are sober.
The experienced Oklahoma car accident injury attorneys at The Maples Law Firm have a successful track record of holding drunk drivers accountable on behalf of injured victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI collision, please contact us at (405) 705-5050 for a free consultation.
