If you are among the 61% of Americans planning to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, you'll likely do so with a libation or four as St. Patrick's Day is among the holidays that see the highest levels of alcohol consumption, according to Alcohol.org. The National Retail Federation reported that 41% of Americans over the age of 18 will spend money on beverages during St. Pat's, while 18% plan to celebrate at a bar or restaurant. The retail trade group also reported that a larger number of older Americans (35 years old and older) are celebrating the holiday than they had in the past as well. The average American consumes 4.2 drinks on the holiday, just behind the average of 4.5 drinks consumed by revelers during Mardi Gras (the holiday with the highest level of alcohol consumption). Around 32% of men and 20% of women say they binge drink on St. Patrick's Day, which is the holiday most men associated with drinking, Alcohol.org reported. The above slideshow details the states that have the highest average annual alcohol and beer consumption levels, according to Wisevoter.com. The slideshow also looks at where these states rank in terms of DUI frequency and traffic deaths caused by drunk drivers. The legal and insurance consequences are harsh following a DUI. In addition to fines and other penalties courts might impose, car insurance rates increase an average of 76% following a DUI, Forbes Advisor reported. This is much higher than other cost-raising incidents, such as an accident with an injury, which can cause premiums to rise 47%. Related: |

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