Happy Saint Patrick's Day

Erin Go Bragh!

I would be remiss in my duties as your insurance guide if I did not take this time to remind everyone to drive carefully and soberly on this fine holiday. Small businesses hosting parties and restaurants serving alcohol need to review our discussion of liquor liability insurance and keep an eye on employees and patrons.

St. Patrick's Day has evolved into an unofficial national holiday in many U.S. Cities, including Cleveland, Ohio (my hometown), but there is a tradition of drinking that comes with the holiday. This is especially concerning where, like today, the day falls on a weekday and many suburbanites may commuting home after a wee bit too much. One sobering thought is how serious the Irish take the crime of drinking and driving as explained by this solicitor's website. The Irish Statutes are a bit hard to follow because amendments to statutes are added to amendments without a rewrite of the statute as is the U.S. practice. But, the statutes set a baseline 80 mg blood alcohol level as the per se intoxication level and provide for mandatory license disqualification upon initial convictions for up to three years (four years if testing is refused). The fine is up to 1,000 pounds and up to six months in prison.

Like the U.S., a 2006 amendment to the Road Traffic Act allows for mandatory roadside checkpoints. What is different is that the officer has discretion to demand testing or to have the driver pull and park the car. A refusal to do either can result in a 5,000 pound fine and six months in prison.

Keep it safe, get a designated driver, and make sure your employees stay safe today