Celebrate Responsibly: FHP's St. Patrick's Day Warning to Florida Drivers

Courtesy of Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV)Photo byFlorida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV)

By Ciara Perez, News Reporter | iSkyCreations - News & Media (ISC)
Published March 16th, 2024

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - With Spring Break and St. Patrick's Day celebrations converging this weekend, the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is launching a heartfelt plea to Floridians and visitors: Celebrate responsibly and don’t rely on the luck of the Irish to get you home safely. Amidst the festivities, the FHP underscores the importance of planning ahead to avoid the dire consequences of impaired driving.

Remember, under Florida law, driving under the influence of alcoholic beverages, chemical substances, or controlled substances is one offense, proved by impairment of normal faculties or an unlawful blood alcohol or breath alcohol level of .08 or above. The penalties upon conviction are the same, regardless of how the offense is proven.

Statistics reveal a troubling trend: March sees a spike in driving under the influence (DUI) citations and open-container violations, with St. Patrick's Day marking the apex for traffic accidents resulting in fatalities and serious injuries. Florida law is unequivocal in its stance against driving under the influence, asserting that impairment by alcohol, chemicals, or controlled substances constitutes a single, prosecutable offense, with penalties unaltered by the method of proof. Convictions carry severe penalties, reflecting the serious risks associated with impaired driving.

Courtesy of Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV)Photo byFlorida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV)

The dangers of drinking and driving are profound, with alcohol significantly impairing motor skills, judgment, and reaction times. Even a single alcoholic beverage can alter one's driving ability, emphasizing the need for a sober designated driver or the utilization of ride-sharing services.

THE FIVE SIGNS OF IMPAIRMENT:

Under the influence of alcohol and drugs, drivers can experience:

• A slow reaction time.
• Limited short-term memory functions.
• Decreased hand-eye coordination.
• Weakened concentration.
• Difficulty perceiving time and distance.

As the festivities get underway, the FHP’s message is clear: Don't find yourself in a pinch by pushing your luck. Choose to celebrate St. Patrick's Day with joy and responsibility, ensuring a safe return home for all.

Visit FLHSMV's Impaired Driving webpage for more information on the types of impairment, campaign resources, data, and more.

Photo byiSkyCreations - News & Media