The Michigan Liquor Control Commission and the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs urged residents on Mar. 13 to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day safely by avoiding drinking and driving.
St. Patrick’s Day is known as one of the deadliest holidays on the roads due to drunk driving, with authorities highlighting that celebrations often begin early, including during the weekend leading up to March 17.
Kristin Beltzer, Chair of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission, said, “Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day responsibly. If you choose to drink, designate a driver or arrange a safe ride home, and never drive under the influence. Have a plan to get home safely and enjoy the celebration without putting yourself or others at risk.”
According to information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration cited in the announcement, 38% of traffic deaths on St. Patrick’s Day involve drunk driving. From 2018 through 2022 there were 290 alcohol-related traffic fatalities on this holiday; in 2022 alone there were 74 such fatalities.
Officials advised partygoers to make transportation plans before drinking begins since alcohol can impair judgment about how to get home safely later in the night. Suggestions included securing a designated sober driver or using taxi or rideshare services like Uber or Lyft.
The agencies also reminded liquor licensees about their responsibilities: checking IDs, serving only those of legal drinking age, avoiding overservice of alcohol, maintaining order in their establishments, monitoring capacity limits closely so exits are not blocked by overcrowding—measures intended both for customer safety and compliance with regulations.
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