Hangover Isn't the Worst of St. Patrick's Day Binges

St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner, and driving buzzed on the holiday could cost you a pot of leprechaun’s gold – like up to $10,000 in legal fees, court costs, and increased insurance rates.

For many Americans, 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 has also become very dangerous.

Here are some ways to help prevent buzzed driving in your community this St. Patrick’s Day—and post this on your Facebook page or blog:

• Before drinking, plan ahead and designate a sober driver

• If you’re impaired, call a taxi, sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you get home safely.

• Use your community’s sober ride program.

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

Remember, Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving.

If you know people who are about to drive or ride with someone who is impaired, take the driver’s keys and help them make other arrangements to get to their destination safely.

NHTSA needs your help in keeping the roads safe for everyone this St. Patrick’s Day by spreading the word that Buzzed Driving IS Drunk Driving.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to learn more about the financial- and life- threatening implications of buzzed driving.

Remember: Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving. Don't rely on dumb luck this St. Patrick's Day. Plan ahead and designate a sober driver and ask your loved ones to do the same.