It may be one of America’s most anticipated and exciting sporting events, but if alcohol and driving mix, it can also be a costly and dangerous one. That’s why law enforcement agencies through the area are focusing on getting impaired drivers off the road. Together with the State Highway Safety Office, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the National Football League (NFL), the Benton Police Department reminds everyone to designate a sober driver.
Impaired driving carries the possibility of fines, increased insurance rates, jail time, injury and death. It’s simply not worth the risk. Law enforcement throughout Arkansas, including members of the Benton Police Department will be on the lookout for impaired drivers and reminds you that if you are found to be impaired, you will be arrested.
“Our message is simple: If you are found driving over the legal limit, you will be placed under arrest,” said Lt. Kevin Russell. We’ll be looking for impaired drivers to get them off the road and keep the highways safe for everyone.”
In Arkansas during 2011, 231 people were killed due to alcohol and drug related crashes. Nationwide during the same time period, according to NHTSA, 9,878 people were killed in alcohol and drugged driving crashes. These crashes were 31 percent more likely to occur on weekends than on weekdays.
Designate a Sober Driver
Whether attending the game, watching at a bar or hosting a party, the Benton Police Department reminds everyone that Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk. Before choosing to drink, choose your team’s MVP – a sober designated driver. NHTSA offers these additional safety tips:
If you’re attending a Super Bowl party or watching the game at a sports bar or restaurant:
• Designate your sober driver, or plan another way to get home safely before the party begins.
• If you don’t have a designated driver, then ask a sober friend for a ride home; call a cab, friend, or family member to come and get you; or just stay for the night.
If you’re hosting a Super Bowl party:
• Make sure all your guests designate a sober driver in advance, or arrange for alternate transportation to ensure they get home safely.
• Serve food and include non-alcoholic beverages at the party.
• Stop serving alcohol at the end of the third quarter of the game and begin serving coffee and dessert.
• Keep the numbers for local cab companies handy, and take the keys away from anyone who has had too much to drink.
And remember, your seat belt is your best defense against a drunk driver in a crash.
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