March 17, 2016, St. Patrick’s Day, the day Kansas City turns green. Classically, parades with bagpipes adorn the streets, green drinks are served, and corned beef and cabbage with soda bread is served and enjoyed. All become Irish on St. Patrick’s Day, people don green clothing, look for a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow or just simply look for luck. But, if you cross a four leaf clover entwined with poison ivy, would you pick it? Probably wouldn’t chance the pain of poison ivy just because you feel lucky? Don’t test your luck, drive sober this St. Patrick’s Day.
Have you ever heard the story of the individual who left the party and a few minutes later crossed a median on the highway in their car, injuring several people in oncoming traffic and their life was forever changed? If you haven’t heard this story, don’t be the one to write it. According to, dui.drivinglaws.org, the legal Blood Alcohol Limit (BAC) in all states is 0.08% if you are 21 years of age or older. The limit is lower if you are under 21 years or are a commercial driver. There are many factors that determine your BAC, your weight, if you have eaten, prescription medications; furthermore, the recommended BAC is 0.0%; sober. Driving sober is not limited to alcohol, it is also illegal to drive while under the influence of a controlled substance such as cocaine or marijuana.
Often, law enforcement set up police check points in relevant locations to enforce public safety while operating a vehicle during random times throughout the day and night. Breathalyzer’s are administered to determine your BAC and if you are impaired or over the legal limit or suspected of being under the influence of controlled substances, you will be arrested and escorted to jail. A DUI (driving under the influence) or sometimes known as a DWI (driving while intoxicated) will greatly change your life. Consequences include (but are not limited to) a monetary fine, possible jail time, loss or suspension of driver’s license, or an Interlock Ignition Device which inhibits your vehicle to start with any trace of alcohol on your breath. However, a DUI or DWI seems easy in comparison to the worst fate, death or vehicular homicide. Drive sober or designate a driver. Don’t test your luck, driver sober this St. Patrick’s Day.
FACTS: (dui.drivinglaws.org)
- BAC is 0.08% if you are over 21
- BAC is 0.02% if you under 21
- BAC is 0.04% if you are a commercial driver
There are many driver services available at the simple touch of your finger and swipe of your credit card. So, this St. Patrick’s Day – celebrate! Drink green beverages, eat corned beef and cabbage, heck, dye your hair green if you want. But remember, if you cross a 4 leaf clover entwined with poison ivy, leave it alone. Don’t test your luck, drive sober this St. Patrick’s Day.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day from the law office of Reginald Davis.