VSP, DMV encourage drivers to establish a game plan ahead of Super Bowl Sunday

Odyssey Fields
·2 min read

ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) — “Flag on the play, driving buzzed?”

This is just one of the many signs drivers may see while traveling on highways across the Commonwealth. As we get closer to Super Bowl Sunday, the Virginia State Police (VSP) and the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) are encouraging drivers to have a game plan on game day.

“If you choose to go out and celebrate with alcohol, please make sure you have a plan
before you go out to get home safely. And never drink and drive. We want to make sure that when the game is over everyone makes it home safely,” said DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey, the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative.

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State police said on Super Bowl Sunday in 2023, there were 28 crashes involving alcohol and two deaths. Last year on the big game day, troopers charged 23 drivers with driving while intoxicated.

Over the past three years, the agency said at least one person died in an alcohol-related crash on game night.

To make sure this Super Bowl Sunday has zero deadly alcohol-related crashes or DUIs, local law enforcement, and state police will be increasing visibility on the roads during game time.

“We want Virginians to choose to find a safe way home if one’s Super Bowl party includes alcohol. Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or illicit drugs puts yourself and others at risk. Avoid this by having a plan in advance that involves a sober driver or alternative transportation,” said Col. Gary Settle, Superintendent of Virginia State Police.

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VSP is advising drivers to consider the following tips when making a game plan for Super Bowl Sunday:

  • Designate a driver – Talk with your friends and find a designated driver. If you are the designated driver, take that responsibility seriously.

  • Call a car – Before you go out, make sure you have the number for a taxi service in your
    phone or download a ride-booking app like Uber or Lyft.

  • Buckle up – Just because you made the responsible choice to not drink and drive sadly does
    not mean others will do the same. Always buckle your seat belt; it is your best defense in a
    crash.

  • Host responsibly – If you are hosting, make sure there are plenty of non-alcoholic beverage
    options and food for guests. If you see someone preparing to drive who you know has been drinking, speak up and help them find a safe ride.

State police are reminding the drivers that if they are caught drinking and driving, they can face jail time, lose their driver’s license and vehicle, and pay up to $10,000 in attorney fees.

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