Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a Sober Driver

Don't rely on the luck of the Irish during St. Patrick's Day activities to stay safe. The Kansas Department of Transportation urges motorists to plan ahead and secure a sober driver before traveling.

"With St. Patrick's Day on a Sunday, weekend festivities may likely include alcohol," said Gary Herman, KDOT Behavior Safety Manager. "Advance planning to make sure nobody gets behind the wheel after drinking will avoid DUI's and help save families from losing a loved one - both of which are completely preventable."

St. Patrick's Day is one of the deadliest days on the nation's roads according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving campaign reminds drivers that a blood alcohol content level of 0.08 or higher is not only illegal but it puts all motorists and pedestrians at serious risk.

Preliminary 2023 data from KDOT shows that 58 people were killed and another 1,057 people were injured in crashes across the state that involved alcohol.

The Drive To Zero Coalition and KDOT share these sober driving tips: Designate a sober driver in advance – someone who will not drink at all. Call a sober friend or relative to drive. Use a ride share program. Take an impaired driver's keys if they insist on driving.

For more information about the Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving campaign, visit St. Patrick's Day | Drunk Driving | Traffic Safety Marketing.

(Information courtesy KDOT.)