For Immediate Release:
Jan. 31, 2019
Contact:
Tim Weisberg
OTS Marketing and Public Affairs
timothy.weisberg@ots.ca.gov
(916) 509-3020
The OTS encourages fans to use a designated sober driver
Have a plan: Enjoy Super Bowl LIII responsibly
The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) reminds football fans it’s important to have a game plan for how to get home safely this Super Bowl Sunday.
Millions of people will be at parties and bars across the country Feb. 3 to watch Super Bowl LIII.
“When it comes to public safety, we are all on the same team,” OTS Director Rhonda Craft said. “Remember, when deciding how you will get home, designating a sober driver or finding another safe way home is always the priority.”
Law enforcement will increase patrols across the state helping keep impaired drivers off the road. Unfortunately, alcohol-impaired driving remains one of California’s biggest problems.
On Super Bowl Sunday last year, seven people were killed and 134 were injured in alcohol-involved crashes statewide, according to preliminary numbers from the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
The OTS offers the following tips for those planning to watch the big game at the bar or a party:
• If you are hosting a party, be a team player and have plenty of snacks and non-alcoholic drinks for designated sober drivers.
• Party hosts: monitor who is drinking and how they are getting home. Take the keys away from anyone impaired who tries to leave.
• Always use a designated sober driver, whether it is a sober friend, ride-share service or taxi. Even one drink can be one too many.
• Report drunk drivers – Call 911.
The OTS reminds drivers 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.
“There are many options to get home safely without getting behind the wheel,” Craft said. “Using a sober driver is your best defense.”
Whether by car, motorcycle, bike, or walking, the OTS wants everyone to “go safely.” To learn more about ways to stay safe on the go, visit www.gosafelyca.org.
