KANSAS CITY, Mo.— Super Bowl LVIII is February 11th this year and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Region 7, comprised of Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska, is teaming up with local law enforcement to remind Chiefs fans and football fans everywhere that Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk. This year, our region’s very own Kansas City Chiefs are returning to the big game, and we aim to keep all of Chiefs Kingdom safe. 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.
“We want fans to enjoy Super Bowl gatherings, but we also want sober drivers navigating their way to and from them,” said Regional Administrator Susan DeCourcy. “If you plan on joining in the festivities, make a game plan to ensure you have a designated driver or access to a taxi/rideshare. If you are hosting a party for this year’s Super Bowl, prepare plenty of snacks and non-alcoholic drinks for your designated driver guests. Finally, remind your loved ones: Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk! And of course, go Chiefs!”
Host a Winning Party
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.
Be the Designated Drive (DD) MVP
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. Encourage other designated drivers on social media by using the hashtag #DesignatedDriver. Your positive influence could help keep them on the right track. If someone you know has been drinking and tries to drive, intercept their keys, and help them get home safely.
Remember: You’re the night’s quarterback, and others are relying on you.
Have a Game Plan
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