Agencies, organization encouraging safe driving on Super Bowl Sunday
Feb. 9—Football fans are reminded to be responsible and plan a designated driver if you are attending a Super Bowl party.
PennDOT, the Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania DUI Association and AAA Mid-Atlantic teamed up to push this message recently at Chickie's & Pete's in South Philadelphia.
"Safety is PennDOT's most important priority," said acting PennDOT Executive Deputy Secretary Melissa Batula. "We want Eagles fans to enjoy their festivities this weekend, but we also want responsible drivers on our roads.
"If your celebration includes alcohol, plan ahead by designating a sober driver or arranging for alternate transportation."
The state police said it will increase the use of roving patrols on Sunday to target drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
According to PennDOT data, in 2022, there were 348 crashes statewide from 6 p.m. Super Bowl Sunday to 6 a.m. Monday. Of those, 46 crashes involved a driver under the influence, resulting in one fatality.
In addition, the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Schuylkill County police have a message for partygoers: fans don't let fans drive drunk.
"We want our community members to enjoy Super Bowl festivities, but we also want responsible drivers on our roads," said David Everly, regional coordinator for the North Central Regional DUI Enforcement Program.
"If you are planning to be away from home during Super Bowl, make a game plan to ensure you don't find yourself without a designated driver if you need one," Everly said. "If you're hosting a party, make sure you take care of your designated drivers."
