With the Irish American Heritage Center in close proximity and a vibrant history of Irish culture, including dyeing the Chicago River green for over 60 years, Chicago is one of the best places in the country to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. However, there are risks around celebrating the day. When crowds and alcohol are involved, the possibility of a personal injury increases.
Our legal team wants you to stay safe this holiday. We have prepared this list of safety tips to help.
Don’t Drink and Drive
There is no shortage of alcohol supply during Chicago St. Patrick’s Day. You can do your part to avoid getting in a car accident by not drinking and driving. Arrange a rideshare service, ask a friend to be a designated driver, or arrange a drop-off and pick-up before you go out drinking.
Also, be aware of the signs of drunk driving, which include:
- Sudden accelerating and braking for no known reason
- Weaving in and out of lanes
- Driving the wrong way
- Shifting back and forth in a lane
- The driver’s head bobbing down
If you spot another driver acting erratically, pull back and give them plenty of space. Then, call the police to help prevent a tragic accident.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
One of the best ways to avoid various types of injuries is to stay aware of your surroundings.
Here are some tips to do that:
- Noticing potential dangers
- Keeping an eye on the other people you are with and your belongings
- Noticing all nearby exits
- Trusting your gut and leaving any situation you think is unsafe
- Staying at the edge of the crowd in case you need to make a safe exit
Criminals might be out, ready to take advantage of people who are noticeably drunk. Try to limit your alcohol intake so that they do not target you.
Have a Plan
Before heading out for a parade, a drink, or an event, have a plan in place for you and the people you are going out with. For example, is there somewhere you can meet if you get separated? What will you do if someone is injured? What is the best way to contact each other in a noisy setting?
Taking a few minutes to think through these possibilities can help you prepare yourself in case a problem arises.
Use the Buddy System
Avoid going out alone or with strangers. Instead, bring a trusted friend so you can watch over each other.
Don’t Leave Drinks Unattended
If you have a drink, keep a close eye on it. Do not accept an open drink from someone else. Keep your drink with you at all times.
Recognize the Signs of Alcohol Poisoning
If someone looks unwell, monitor them for the following signs, which might indicate alcohol poisoning:
- Seizures
- Confusion or disorientation
- Difficulty staying conscious
- Abnormal breathing
- Bluish lips and fingernails
- Pale, clammy skin
If you notice these signs, call 911 immediately.
Wear the Right Shoes
Give some extra attention to your footwear, and not just for the fashion. If you are going out in a large crowd, consider wearing flat, close-toed shoes. Wearing shoes with good traction can help you avoid a slip and fall.
Contact Our Chicago Personal Injury Attorneys If You Are Injured During a St. Patrick’s Day Celebration
We know that even if you follow all these safety tips, you cannot control the actions of others. If you are injured because of someone else’s negligence, reach out to an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer for help. We can investigate your case, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
For more information, please contact the experienced Chicago personal injury lawyers at Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys today. We offer free consultations.
We proudly serve Cook County, Will County, Kendall County, and its surrounding areas:
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys – Chicago Office
10 S La Salle St STE 1230, Chicago, IL 60603
(312) 726-1616
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys – Joliet Office
195 Springfield Ave, Joliet, IL 60435
(815) 726-1616
