Police urge motorists to drive sober this Super Bowl weekend
By Jenna Wilson
The St. Joseph Police Department is reminding people to practice safe driving habits as Super Bowl weekend celebrations begin.
The National Highway Traffic Administration is partnering with local law enforcement agencies to promote its “Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk” campaign.
According to NHTSA, 13,384 people died in alcohol-impaired driving traffic deaths in 2021. Chances of fatality crashes rise during Super Bowl weekend and officials are urging drivers to have a safety plan.
“Statewide, around 24% of all our fatalities have had alcohol and or drugs related to them, and this weekend is going to be no different,” said Sgt. James Tonn with the St. Joseph Police Department. “Unfortunately, we know a fatality is likely to happen somewhere and we’re hoping we don’t see it here in St. Joe. Never plan on driving yourself if you’ve been drinking alcohol or using marijuana. The best thing you can do is arrange for a ride from your destination in advance.
If you find yourself without a ride and you are impaired, officials urge fans to use local ride-share options including Uber and Lyft or walk before getting behind the wheel.
Law enforcement officers want fans to enjoy Super Bowl weekend cheering on the hometown team, but they warn that one night of fun isn’t worth anyone’s life.
“We want to see you get home safe, your family wants to see you get home safe and for you to have fun in the future,” Tonn said. “If you’re killed drinking and driving or kill someone else, that’s not going to happen all over a simple choice and that’s all it is; a choice to get it right or a choice to drink and drive. The last thing we want to do is to go to your family’s house on Super Bowl Sunday and say you’re not coming home, so everyone please, make smart decisions.”
The St. Joseph Police Department and other law enforcement agencies will be patrolling the roads all weekend to make sure there are no impaired drivers who could cause harm to other drivers.
