This Sunday, Feb. 12, the Kansas City Chiefs will battle the Philadelphia Eagles during the Super Bowl, the biggest U.S. sporting event each year that is often celebrated by friends and families at bars, restaurants and house parties. With the potential for fans to enjoy the big game with alcohol, AAA Texas reminds everyone that before you head out to watch the game, make plans to get home safe.
According to the latest statistics from the Texas Department of Transportation, in 2022, 1,141 fatalities were attributed to DUI statewide which is a six percent increase over the previous year. The number of injuries which were reported as alcohol-related also increased from 2021 by around one percent.
“Anyone planning to consume alcohol or host a Superbowl party should create a plan in advance to ensure themselves and loved ones get home safe,” said AAA Texas spokesperson Daniel Armbruster. “Consuming alcohol and getting behind the wheel significantly increases the likelihood of a crash.”
AAA Texas Tips for Staying Safe This Super Bowl Sunday
For Party Hosts:
- Ask all your guests to designate a sober driver in advance.
- Keep phone numbers for sober ride services handy. Be a responsible host. Take car keys from partygoers as they arrive and don’t let them drive impaired.
- Serve food and non-alcoholic drinks and water. Many zero-proof mocktail recipes, including those featuring team colors, can be found online.
- Serve protein-rich and starchy foods to slow alcohol absorption.
- Do not serve alcohol to anyone under age 21.
- Allow guests to stay overnight, if possible.
- Thank designated drivers with a small gift.
For Party Guests or Patrons Watching at Restaurants and Bars:
- Designate a sober driver in advance if attending a Super Bowl party.
- Keep a ride service app in your mobile phone so you can arrange for a ride home. Make sure the ride service driver matches the driver on the app.
- Avoid drinking too much alcohol too quickly. Eat food and drink water during the party.
- Call a sober friend or family member for a ride if you’ve been drinking. Or, if possible, stay where you are for the night.
- Never ride as a passenger in a car driven by someone who has been drinking alcohol – even after just one drink.
- If you’re under 21, do not consume alcohol.
- Buckle your seat belt each time you’re in a vehicle.
- If you encounter an impaired driver on the road, keep a safe distance and ask a passenger to call 911 (or pull over to a safe location to make the call yourself).
About AAA: AAA provides more than 63 million members with automotive, travel, insurance and financial services through its federation of independently owned motor clubs and nearly 1,000 branch offices across North America. Since 1902, AAA has been a leader and advocate for the motorist and safe mobility. Drivers can request roadside assistance, identify nearby gas prices, locate discounts, book a hotel or map a route via the AAA Mobile app. AAA Texas branch offices throughout the state can be found by visiting www.AAA.com. Follow AAA Texas on Twitter: @AAATexas and Facebook: www.facebook.com/AAATexas.