MAINE, USA — Police departments across Maine are warning those participating in St. Patrick's Day festivities to drive sober and not push your luck.
Mainers across the state are celebrating St. Patrick's Day on Sunday with plenty of events, entertainment, food, and drinks.
The Irish holiday is one of the biggest drinking days of the year, the Portland Police Department said on Facebook. Along with four-leaf clovers and pots of gold, drunk drivers are expected to abound Sunday evening.
Police departments are asking people to rethink grabbing a pint of Guinness and getting behind the wheel.
Before heading to the pub, plan a sober ride home—whether it be through a designated driver or a ride-share service. Portland police said even walking is a risk, with "nearly one in seven pedestrian deaths [involving] an alcohol-impaired driver."
Injury aside, minimum OUI penalties ranging from $400 to $2,400 could do quite a number on your pot of gold, according to the Maine Department of Public Safety's website.
Don't depend on luck to ensure your safety this holiday, and instead, plan ahead.