Super Bowl factoids: Yes, there’s an increase in drunk driving

On Behalf of | Feb 9, 2018 | Owi/dui

It may come as no surprise, but the Super Bowl results in one of the drunkest days in America. People get together to watch the game, but that often is accompanied by tailgate parties and heavy drinking at bars and at home.

Driving under the influence after a party puts you, your friends, family and others at risk. Police have seen an increase in the number of DUI arrests on Super Bowl Sunday, so they’ve started using DUI checkpoints to keep drunk drivers off the roads.

The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for driving is .08 percent. If you have a BAC of .08 percent, you face a DUI and possible arrest. Impairment doesn’t automatically start at that level, however. In truth, some people show signs of intoxication much sooner.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that around 21 percent of all fatal crashes involve drunk drivers, as of 2012 data. By catching a cab or using a ride-sharing service, the number of crashes and fatalities could drop significantly. If you’re not sure if you can drive, consider using these services or staying overnight where you are, so you don’t risk getting into a crash or getting a DUI.

The Super Bowl isn’t the only day for extra drinking. Many upcoming holidays, including Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day, all show a spike in drinking.

Think before you get behind the wheel. Taking a cab or calling someone to take you home could save you the hassle of a DUI and help you avoid injuries or a crash.

Source: Forbes, “Super Bowl and DUI: Six Facts About One Of America’s Drunkest Days,” Andrew Bender, accessed Feb. 09, 2018

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