Many people consider St. Patrick’s Day one of their favorite holidays. It’s a day that encourages people to wear green, gather up a big group of their friends, and go out to have a good time. It’s also a holiday that inspires drinking a lot of alcohol. The downside to St. Patrick’s Day is that the celebration often ends when you find yourself behind bars.
St. Patrick’s Day has the distinction of being one of the holidays when arrest numbers spike. In California, the cities that see the highest level of St. Patrick’s Day arrests are San Diego and San Francisco.
Why Are So Many People Arrested on Saint Patrick’s Day
There’s a reason so many people are arrested on Saint Patrick’s Day. That reason is alcohol. There’s something about the festive attitude on Saint Patrick’s Day that causes people to party a little too hard. Even individuals who are normally extremely responsible about drinking and never overindulge will get drunk and make poor decisions on Saint Patrick’s Day.
Don’t assume that as long as you don’t drive, you don’t have to worry about drinking too much on Saint Patrick’s Day. The reality is that DUIs are only one of the things you have to worry about. Alcohol can also cause you to get into a fight which can lead to assault charges. Pick a violent argument with your partner and get charged with domestic violence, do something silly and potentially dangerous and be charged with public intoxication, and more.
How to Avoid Jail on Saint Patrick’s Day
The best way to avoid going to jail on Saint Patrick’s Day is to avoid drinking. If you do feel the need to celebrate with a green beer or two, make sure you’re really good about limiting yourself. One of the ways you can do this is by bringing only a small amount of cash into the bar or restaurant.
Staying home and having a few close friends hanging out to celebrate the holiday is also a good idea. Since you’re at your own home and surrounded by people you like, the odds of you getting into trouble decrease. Just make sure you don’t invite people you like but who you also argue with. It’s also a good idea to invite them to spend the night so no one has to worry about whether they can get home safely.
Make smart choices, stay safe, and enjoy a fantastic Saint Patrick’s Day.