NHTSA on St. Patrick’s Day Safety 2024

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is currently preparing for their annual St. Patrick’s Day safety campaign. It probably doesn’t come as a surprise that this holiday is one of the deadliest days on U.S. roadways. This year, the NHTSA will start promoting anti-drunk driving messages on March 11th. The campaign will continue until St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th.  

The NHTSA will be conducting paid advertising on social media in an effort to reach more people. They’re urging people to play it safe during the upcoming holiday. Motorists are being reminded to make a plan for a safe ride home if they plan to celebrate with alcohol. Designate a driver, call a cab or use a ride sharing app, but whatever you do, don’t get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking. 

St. Patrick’s Day Crashes by The Numbers  

  • Between 2017 and 2021, 272 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes during the St. Patrick’s Day holiday period.  
  • During the 2021 St. Patrick’s Day holiday period, 47 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes. 
  • Of those fatalities, 41 of them occurred during the nighttime hours. 

Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving  

Officials with the NHTSA also want drivers to know that buzzed driving is drunk driving. Even one drink can be one drink too many. Alcohol reduces reaction times and cognitive function. It may be tempting to think you’re “okay to drive” if you’ve “only had a few,” but the most important thing you can do if you’ve been drinking is to get a safe ride home.  

This year, make a plan in advance. It’s easier if you plan ahead. It doesn’t hurt to have a backup plan either, because rides can fall through. This St. Patrick’s Day, make sure to stay safe and do your part to help keep the roads safe.  

The team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. wishes everybody a safe and happy upcoming St. Patrick’s Day, and if you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a drunk driving crash in San Diego or anywhere in Southern California, contact our office at 1.800.GO.HARRIS for a free case consultation.