Personal Injury Blog

St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago is a celebration like no other. Every year, thousands of residents and visitors flock to the city to watch the Chicago River turn green, enjoy lively parades, and pack the bars for a full day of festivities. But with the excitement comes a serious risk—March 17 is one of the most dangerous days for car accidents in the city.

The combination of heavy pedestrian traffic, increased alcohol consumption, and congested roadways leads to a surge in car, truck, and rideshare accidents. If you or a loved one is injured in a crash, knowing your legal options is crucial. Whether you need a Chicago car accident attorney, a Lyft car accident lawyer, or a top injury law firm in Chicago, Duncan Law Group is here to help you navigate your claim and get the compensation you deserve.

The Dangers of St. Patrick’s Day Traffic in Chicago

While St. Patrick’s Day is a time for fun, it’s also one of the riskiest days to be on the road. Here’s why:

1. Increased Drunk Driving

Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations often involve all-day drinking, and unfortunately, not everyone makes responsible choices when it’s time to go home. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that nearly 40% of all traffic fatalities on St. Patrick’s Day involve a drunk driver.

2. Overloaded Rideshare Services

Uber and Lyft see a major spike in demand on St. Patrick’s Day. While this helps reduce the number of drunk drivers, it also leads to rushed and distracted rideshare drivers trying to complete as many trips as possible. Unsafe pickups, abrupt stops, and speeding are common. If you’re injured in a rideshare accident, a Lyft car accident lawyer can help you navigate the complex claims process.

3. Congested Streets and Aggressive Driving

The city’s major streets, including Michigan Avenue, State Street, and Lake Shore Drive, become gridlocked during St. Patrick’s Day weekend. Impatient drivers may speed, ignore traffic signals, or engage in reckless driving to get through the congestion.

4. High Pedestrian Traffic

With thousands of people on foot moving between bars, parades, and restaurants, the risk of pedestrian-related accidents skyrockets. Intoxicated pedestrians may step into traffic without looking, leading to serious injuries for both pedestrians and drivers.

5. Out-of-Town Visitors Unfamiliar with Chicago Roads

Many people travel to Chicago for the celebrations, and unfamiliarity with the city’s streets can result in wrong turns, sudden stops, or confusion at intersections, increasing the likelihood of collisions.

How to Stay Safe on St. Patrick’s Day

While you can’t control how others drive, you can take steps to reduce your risk of an accident:

1. Plan Your Transportation in Advance

If you plan on drinking, arrange for a designated driver, rideshare, or public transportation before heading out. Waiting until the last minute to book an Uber or Lyft can leave you stranded—or worse, tempted to drive yourself.

2. Stay Alert on the Road

Whether you’re behind the wheel or walking, be extra cautious. Expect delays, detours, and unpredictable behavior from other drivers and pedestrians.

3. Avoid Distracted Driving

Put your phone away and focus 100% on the road. With so many hazards around, even a brief distraction can lead to a serious accident.

4. Be Extra Cautious Near Parades and Event Areas

The Chicago Riverwalk, Downtown Loop, and Wrigleyville are hotspots for celebrations. Slow down, watch for pedestrians, and be prepared for sudden stops.

5. Know When to Walk Away

If you see a driver who appears intoxicated—swerving, braking erratically, or drifting lanes—keep your distance and report them to local authorities.

What to Do If You’re in an Accident on St. Patrick’s Day

Even if you take every precaution, accidents can still happen. If you’re involved in a crash, follow these steps:

1. Check for Injuries: Ensure that everyone in your vehicle is safe. Call 911 if anyone is hurt.
2. Call the Police: A police report is essential for proving liability in an accident case.
3. Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
4. Get Contact Information: Exchange names, insurance details, and contact numbers with all involved parties.
5. Report Rideshare Accidents: If your accident involved an Uber or Lyft, report it through the app and consult a Lyft car accident lawyer to protect your claim.
6. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries—like concussions or whiplash—may not be immediately apparent.
7. Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer: Whether you need a Chicago car accident attorney or a top injury law firm in Chicago, having legal representation can ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries.

How Duncan Law Group Can Help

If you’ve been injured in a car accident during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, Duncan Law Group is here to fight for your rights. Our firm has extensive experience handling:

1. Drunk Driving Accidents – Holding intoxicated drivers accountable for their reckless actions.
2. Rideshare Accidents – Helping victims of Uber and Lyft crashes recover compensation.
3. Pedestrian Accidents – Representing injured pedestrians who were hit by negligent drivers.
4. Multi-Car Collisions – Determining fault in complex, high-traffic accidents.

With decades of experience, our team knows how to take on insurance companies and negligent drivers to secure the maximum settlement for your case.

Conclusion

St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago is one of the city’s most exciting celebrations, but it’s also one of the riskiest times to be on the road. Whether you’re a driver, passenger, or pedestrian, taking extra safety precautions can help prevent accidents.

But if the worst happens, Duncan Law Group is here to help. Our experienced Chicago car accident attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.

Injured in a St. Patrick’s Day accident? Contact Duncan Law Group today for a free consultation.