Pasadena police are encouraging football fans to think twice and sideline themselves from driving today if they have celebrated Super Bowl LIV by drinking a bit too much.
“Have a game plan for the big game by making sure you have a safe way to get home,” Pasadena Police Lieutenant Max Dahlstein said. “Your best defense against impaired driving is to use a designated sober driver.”
“Millions of people will be watching the Super Bowl at parties and establishments across the country,” said Dahlstein. “Don’t put others at risk because you chose to break the law and drive impaired.”
Dahlstein pointed out that “DUI Doesn’t Just Mean Booze.” If you take prescription drugs, particularly those with a driving or operating machinery warning on the label, you might be impaired enough to get a DUI. Marijuana can also be impairing, especially in combination with alcohol or other drugs, and can result in a DUI.
If you’re hosting a party, be a team player and have plenty of snacks and non-alcoholic drinks available for designated sober drivers. Be sure to monitor who is drinking and how they are getting home. If you plan to drink, don’t plan to drive. Even one drink can be one too many so have your sober friend be the “MVP” and get you home, use ride-share or take public transportation.
Anyone who sees a drunk driver should call 911.
“No matter who you are rooting for on Super Bowl Sunday, we are all on the same team when the game ends so remember to go safely.”
Great Tips For a Safe Superbowl Sunday
Plan to Drink?
- Plan a sober ride home before heading out to watch the big game. Consider getting a sober ride to your destination so you won’t be tempted to later drive impaired. Options available include taxis, Uber, Lyft and public transit.
- If you have a designated driver, ensure they are truly sober, not simply more sober than you are. Buzzed driving is still drunk driving.
- If you’re ever unsure if you are safe to drive, always err on the side of caution and find a sober ride home.
Hosting a Party?
- Encourage your guests to designate a sober driver or plan for a safe ride home.
- Create an Uber or Lyft group ride code for your party and share with your guests.
- Provide plenty of food and non-alcoholic drinks to keep everyone fed and hydrated throughout the game.
- Don’t forget that, as a host, if you serve a guest alcohol and he or she gets in a crash, you could be held liable.
- Offer guests a night on your couch if a sober ride home is unavailable.
Are You the Designated Driver?
- If you’re driving, do not drink. Your responsible choice can save lives.
- Offer rides to those who may not have planned a sober ride home.
- Buckle up and require all your passengers to do the same when it’s time to head home.
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