Driving Safely This St. Patrick’s Day: Everything You Need to Know Before Hitting the Road
St. Patrick’s Day is one of the busiest and most exciting weekends of the year, with families and friends travelling to parades, events, and celebrations across the country. With heavier traffic, busy town centres, and more people out and about, taking a few simple precautions before hitting the road can make all the difference.
Here are three essential safety tips to help keep your journey smooth and stress free this St. Patrick’s Day.
1. Never drive under the influence
Socialising is a big part of St. Patrick’s Day and for anyone planning to enjoy the day with some drinks, the safest approach is to leave the car keys behind and focus on making arrangements that get you home securely.
A few simple rules to remember:
- Leave the car at home if you plan to have a drink. Even one drink can exceed the legal limit and affect your judgement and reaction time, especially when roads are busy or conditions change quickly.
- Organise your way home in advance. Booking a taxi, using public transport, or agreeing a designated driver helps you avoid last minute decisions.
- Be mindful the next morning. Alcohol can remain in your system for longer than expected, especially after a late night or a big celebration. If you’re unsure, it’s safer to delay your journey.
Planning ahead not only protects you but also keeps other road users safe, helping ensure everyone enjoys the festivities without unnecessary risk.
2. Watch your speed and minimise distractions
St. Patrick’s Day brings crowds, parades, and increased foot traffic, meaning roads can feel much busier than usual. Staying focused and giving yourself extra time can help make your drive smoother and safer.
Keep these simple reminders in mind:
- Follow posted speed limits, especially near parade routes, busy town centres, and residential areas where families may be walking.
- Put your phone away completely. Even a quick glance can distract you at a crucial moment, particularly in heavy traffic or unpredictable environments.
- Make sure everyone is wearing a seatbelt, no matter how short the journey.
- Give yourself extra travel time. Rushing increases stress and reduces reaction time the last thing you want on a festive weekend.
A calm, distraction free journey helps keep everyone safer and makes travelling far more enjoyable.
3. Plan ahead for a smooth and stress free journey
With events taking place across Ireland, a little preparation can help you avoid delays and unexpected detours.
Before setting off:
- Check for road closures near parades, markets, or event areas, many towns have diversions in place throughout the day.
- Review the weather forecast. March can bring rain, wind, or fog, so be prepared for changing conditions.
- Top up fuel and check your car’s essentials, including washer fluid and tyre pressure, especially if you’re travelling longer distances.
- Take breaks on longer journeys to stay alert, hydrated, and comfortable.
Looking after these small details early means you can enjoy the celebrations without worrying about the journey home.
A safe, enjoyable St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day is all about celebration, connection, and making memories. By planning ahead, staying alert, and making responsible choices, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable weekend for everyone on the road.
A little added peace of mind
Have peace of mind that your car is protected at all times with Aviva car insurance.
