JACKSONVILLE, Fla. \u2013 Transportation officials are reminding drivers to stay alert and plan ahead as St. Patrick\u2019s Day celebrations and spring break travel increase traffic on Northeast Florida roads.<\/p>\n
Florida Department of Transportation spokesperson Jacob Pickering said the holiday often brings an increase in crashes related to impaired driving.<\/p>\n
\u201cSt. Patrick\u2019s Day does hold a rise of crashes due to impaired driving,\u201d Pickering said. \u201cThe good news is these crashes are preventable.\u201d<\/p>\n
Pickering encourages people celebrating the holiday to plan ahead by choosing a designated driver before leaving home.<\/p>\n
\u201cCelebrate the holiday, but celebrate safely,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
AAA has activated its Tow-to-Go service for those who find themselves stuck without a designated driver on St. Patrick\u2019s Day.<\/p>\n
The service, which provides a free, confidential ride and vehicle tow to a safe location for impaired drivers, will be available from 6 p.m. Monday, March 16, through 6 a.m. Wednesday, March 18.<\/p>\n
Officials say drivers should also be aware that celebrations often start earlier in the day on St. Patrick\u2019s Day, meaning impaired drivers could be on the road both during the day and at night.<\/p>\n
Spring break travel also brings more drivers \u2014 including visitors unfamiliar with local roads \u2014 to Northeast Florida highways.<\/p>\n
Pickering said that means motorists should take extra precautions while driving.<\/p>\n
He encourages drivers to eliminate distractions by putting phones on \u201cDo Not Disturb\u201d or using driving mode.<\/p>\n
\u201cDo stay alert when you\u2019re on the roadways,\u201d Pickering said.<\/p>\n
He also advises drivers to stay patient behind the wheel and avoid road rage.<\/p>\n
With many gatherings taking place throughout the month, Pickering said party hosts can also help prevent impaired driving.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf you\u2019re hosting a party this month, consider having a non-alcoholic option or mocktail for those who have to drive,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
He also recommends arranging transportation ahead of time using rideshare services.<\/p>\n
\u201cThink ahead and always plan ahead,\u201d Pickering said.<\/p>\n
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