Score big this Super Bowl Sunday: IDOT, ISP urge you to be the ultimate sober driving MVP
SPRINGFIELD – This Super Bowl weekend, the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and numerous local police and sheriff’s departments across the state are taking a timeout to spread two important safety messages to the public – “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Click It or Ticket.” The Super Bowl safety campaign runs from Friday, Feb. 6, through 6 a.m. Monday, Feb. 9.
“Before the game begins, designate a driver or make other arrangements for a safe, sober ride so that you, your passengers and everyone on our roads can return home safely,” said Stephane B. Seck-Birhame, IDOT’s bureau chief of Safety Programs and Engineering. “Driving impaired is the worst decision you can make. It’s also 100% avoidable.”
Drinking alcohol isn’t the only impairment risk. Cannabis and other drugs – including prescription and over-the-counter medications– can slow reaction time, affect judgment and make driving dangerous. Plan a sober ride home.
“Whether you’re a Seahawks or Patriots fan, or just love football, celebrate safely this Super Bowl Sunday,” said ISP Division of Patrol Col. Chris Owen. “If you drink, don’t drive, and make sure to buckle up, otherwise you could face a penalty flag that could cost you the game.”
Safety should be your No. 1 priority. When it’s time to leave the party, make sure your designated driver is sober. Remember that walking impaired also can be dangerous, so designate a sober friend to walk home with you if needed.
If you’re planning on being the designated driver, while at the party, enjoy the food, the company, non-alcoholic drinks, and do not use cannabis or other impairing drugs. Remember that sober driving isn’t the only law that should be followed. Make sure you and everyone in the vehicle wear their seat belts. It’s your best defense in a crash.
If you are attending a Super Bowl party:
- Designate a sober driver ahead of time, plan to use your community’s sober ride program, call a cab or use your favorite ride-sharing app.
- Don’t let friends and family members drive impaired. Help them get home safely.
- Wear your seat belt and make sure everyone in the vehicle does the same.
- Promptly report impaired drivers to law enforcement.
If you’re hosting a Super Bowl party:
- Make sure all your guests have a sober ride home.
- Serve plenty of food and non-alcoholic beverages at the party.
- Host your party just like they do at the stadium. Stop serving alcohol at the end of the third quarter. The fourth quarter is perfect for serving coffee and dessert.
- Keep the phone numbers of local cab companies on hand and take the keys away from anyone who is thinking of driving impaired.
The Super Bowl safety campaign is part of the Illinois “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Click It or Ticket” programs that are funded with federal highway safety dollars administered by IDOT and coincides with the “It’s Not a Game” radio, digital and TV campaign, reminding the public of the consequences of impaired driving as well as distracted driving, work zone safety, pedestrian safety, motorcycle awareness and occupant safety.
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Paul Wappel
Maria Castaneda
Melaney Arnold
