Avoiding A St. Patrick’s Day DUI In Illinois

 Posted on March 16, 2017 in Traffic violation

Although a lot of places in Chicago rang in the St. Patrick’s Day holiday last weekend, there will still be plenty of revelers out and about this weekend. The holiday falls on Friday, which almost always leads to an uptick in arrests for crimes like drunk driving, aggravated assault and disorderly conduct. Knowing this, Naperville police and other departments across the state will be adding extra patrols to crack down on drunk drivers and other lawbreakers.

“Naperville Police will be on patrol this St. Patrick’s Day, so make sure you obey the law,” said Naperville Police Sgt. Derek Zook. “Don’t drink and drive, and don’t let your friends do it, either. Help us make zero fatalities a reality in Illinois.”

St. Patrick’s Day In Illinois

The focus of the extra enforcement will be to look for alcohol- and drug-impaired drivers, but that’s not all police will be keeping a close eye on. Sgt. Zook said they would also be conducting extra seat belt enforcement, especially during the night hours when seat belt rates are the lowest.

When it comes to staying out of trouble this weekend, it really comes down to planning ahead and making good decisions, even if plans change. Figure out how you’re going to get home before the night begins, and always have a safe back up plan in place. If you know you’re going to need your car the next day, consider taking public transportation or an Uber to and from your house so that you aren’t left wondering how you’ll get your car home at the end of the night.

Police also wanted to remind anyone who may be hosting a party of host liability laws. Remember, if you host a party where alcohol is served and a guest consumes too much alcohol and harms themselves or another person, you can be held liable. If you are planning on hosting a party, consider:

• Taking car keys/Letting people stay over
• Arranging for taxis or a cab to pick up guests
• Establish a few designated drivers before the night begins
• Serve non-alcoholic choices in addition to alcoholic options
• Serve plenty of food to help slow the absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream
• Do not let intoxicated guests leave in their vehicle

It may sound harsh, but communicate some of these ground rules to guests prior to the party so that everyone is on the same page before the night begins.

We hope you have a wonderful time ringing in the St. Patrick’s Day holiday and the NCAA basketball tournament this weekend, but please make sure you make smart choices. If you end up in trouble, do not wait to contact Brett Appelman and the experienced lawyers at Appelman Law. We will be answering phones 24 hours a day throughout the holiday weekend, so give us a call whenever you need. You can reach us at (630) 717-7801.

Have a wonderful weekend, and make Appelman Law your first call if you end up in a sticky situation!