Mississippi law enforcement officers, along with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), would like to remind the public that in preparation for tonight’s Super Bowl festivities, it is never okay to drive impaired by alcohol or drugs.
NHTSA reported that drunk driving kills, and in 2016, there were 10,497 fatalities in motor vehicle traffic crashes involving drunk drivers. Many Super Bowl parties will involve alcohol, so play it smart by having a winning game plan in place to not drink and drive.
Here are some tips provided by the NHTSA to make sure you and your friends stay safe on this Super Bowl Sunday.
Know the Rules: It’s illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. When it comes to drinking and driving, law enforcement doesn’t throw a yellow flag; they throw the book at you. You’ll get pulled over, arrested, and prosecuted. Your wallet takes a big hit, too. The average DUI court case costs approximately $10,000.
Play It Safe: Defenses win championships; your best defense is to plan a safe ride. From buses and trains to car services and designated drivers, connect with the option that will get you home safely. NHTSA even has an app for that—SaferRide—which is available for Apple and Android devices and can connect you to a local cab company or with a friend who can come pick you up.
Be a Party MVP: Volunteer to be a designated driver. Let your squad know that you’ll be there for them when the party’s over with a safe, sober ride home. [You can even tweet their names to @NHTSAgov to make them part of the NHTSA’s Wall of Fame. Use the hashtag #designateddriver.]
If You’ve Been Drinking, You’re Benched: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. There’s no place on the road for anyone who has been drinking. If someone tries to drive after drinking, tell them to ride the bench until you help them find a sober ride home. If you’re hosting the party, you’re the head coach. Make the right call: take their keys before they drink and drive.
We’re all on the same team when it comes to preventing drunk driving, and however you or your guests travel on Super Bowl Sunday, always buckle up. Your seat belt is your best defense in any vehicle crash.
