Whether you are rooting for the 49ers of the Chiefs for this year’s Superbowl, this is your reminder to be responsible on the roads.
U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Region 7, which includes Iowa, is teaming up with local law enforcement to remind football fans everywhere that Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk. Whether you’re hosting a viewing party or attending one, everyone has an important job: Help keep drunk drivers off the road so we can all make it home safely on game night.
When you drink and drive, the ones who lose are you and those you put in danger. In 2021, there were 13,384 people killed in drunk-driving crashes. Even if there aren’t any deaths resulting from a crash caused by drinking and driving, a crash could cause you, someone you love, or a total stranger to suffer serious injuries. There are also consequences in addition to crashes, including expensive fines and attorney fees, jail time, and losing your driving privileges.
If you’re hosting a party for this year’s Super Bowl, prepare plenty of snacks and non-alcoholic drinks for your guests and the designated drivers. Ask your guests to designate their sober drivers in advance. Remind drinking guests that they have a long evening ahead of them, and encourage them to pace themselves, eat food, and drink plenty of water.
Another important reminder: Never serve alcohol to minors. If an underage person drinks and drives, the person who provided the alcohol can be held liable for any damage, injury, or death caused by the underage driver.
If you’re planning to be a designated driver, know that you’re the night’s MVP. Commit to a sober evening. If you are attending a party or are at a bar or restaurant, enjoy the food, the company, and the non-alcoholic drinks. If someone you know has been drinking and tries to drive, intercept their keys, and help them get home safely.
There are many options to help impaired drivers get home safely, such as designating a sober driver or calling a taxi or rideshare. If available, use your community’s sober ride program. While driving, if you suspect there is a drunk driver on the road, always contact your local law enforcement agency.
It’s simple: Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk. If you drive drunk, you lose. Commit today to refrain from drunk driving. For more information, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving.