Super Bowl weekend is nearly here and the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is teaming up with state and local law enforcement to emphasize the dangers of impaired driving. Whether you’re hosting a party, attending one, or heading out to catch the Big Game, planning ahead is the key to ensuring everyone gets home safely.
The Big Game is this Sunday, February 9, 2025, and should be enjoyed responsibly. If your game-day plans include drinking alcohol or using cannabis, make sure you arrange for a sober ride home in advance. Designate a driver, use a rideshare app, call a taxi, or use public transportation. If you’re hosting, keep safety top of mind by serving food, offering non-alcoholic drink options, and never letting guests drive home impaired.
According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 13,000 people are killed in drunk-driving crashes annually, that is nearly one person killed every 39 minutes. In Connecticut in 2022, the last year of verifiable data, 130 people were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes, representing more than 35% of all fatal crashes.
“Super Bowl Sunday is a time to celebrate with friends and family, but it’s also a time to prioritize safety on our roads,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “No matter who you’re cheering for, everybody wins when there’s a plan for a safe and sober ride home. Remember: fans don’t let fans drive impaired.”
“Enjoy the game, but don’t let the celebration become a dangerous drive. If you’re impaired, don’t get behind the wheel, make the right call, and keep the roads safe for everyone,” said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. “We need your help to keep our roads safe. If you suspect someone is driving impaired, we ask that you be our partners in safety and call 911 as this is a true emergency.”
“The Super Bowl is a great American pastime, but only if you get home safely. Connecticut’s police officers want you to enjoy the event, and remind you to designate a sober driver,” said Watertown Police Chief Josh Bernegger, Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee.
If you’re hosting a Super Bowl party, ensure it’s a fun and safe event by:
- Offering a variety of snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Encouraging guests to designate a sober driver before they arrive.
- Reminding partygoers to pace themselves, eat, and stay hydrated.
- Never serving alcohol to anyone underage. Remember, providing alcohol to minors carries serious legal and moral consequences.
Planning to be a designated driver? You’re the real MVP of the night. Stay sober, enjoy the game, and help ensure everyone gets home safely. If you’re with someone who’s been drinking and is about to drive, step in, take their keys and help them arrange a safe ride home. Your actions can save lives.
No matter who you are rooting for this weekend, if you drive drunk, you lose. For more information about the dangers of drunk driving, visit nhtsa.gov.