It's that time of the year again but it must be said, year in and year out... do not drink and drive this St. Patrick's Day. Many police departments across the state are partnering up to make sure this March the 17th is safe for all drivers. The Oakland Press says the Southfield Police department themselves are partnering with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reminding partiers "buzzed driving is drunk driving."

According to the NHTSA, two years ago on St. Patrick’s Day 60 people were killed in drunk driving accidents nationwide. Also that year, 39 percent of all motor vehicle crash fatalities involved intoxicated drivers and from 2012 to 2016, 269 people were killed in drunk driving accidents. Those numbers are just a reflexion of the ones who were involved in incidents. There was no doubt many more on the road who avoided being caught. but the risk isn't worth it.

Southfield Chief of Police Eric Hawkins wants people in Michigan to have a good time but more importantly to make the proper arrangments to allow for safe travel to and from the bars:

We want our community members to plan ahead when they’re celebrating this St. Patrick’s Day. Whether you are driving yourself or your friends, make sure you stay sober or plan for a sober ride home. There are too many safe alternatives to choose otherwise. Think before you act

 

Here are some ways to stay safe this year:
1) Uber
2) Lyft
3) Plan to have a designated driver and if it's you, take the role seriously and stay completely sober
4) NHTSA’s SaferRide mobile app lets users call a taxi or predetermined friend and identifies your location so you can be picked up.


 

 

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