If you’re planning to raise a glass or two to your favorite team on Superbowl Sunday, you’re probably ahead of the game by staying at home.
MyNewsLA reports that the California Highway Patrol, as well as police and sheriff’s departments around the country, are planning DUI checkpoints or saturation patrols on Sunday. This move is in anticipation of Super Bowl XLVII between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department announced its plans to conduct DUI checkpoints and saturation patrols in Eastvale, Jurupa Valley, La Quinta, Lake Elsinore, Moreno Valley, Norco, Perris, Temecula, and Wildomar.
The California Highway Patrol said it would also be stepping up its operations on Sunday across the state.
“We want the football fans in our community to enjoy Super Bowl festivities,” Sgt. William Pratt, a spokesperson for the Riverside Sheriff’s Department, said, “but we also want responsible drivers on our roads. Before you grab a drink, make sure your game plan includes a ride-share or designating a sober driver,” he continued. “Choosing a safer way to go is something we can all root for.”
Officials have offered some safety tips to help ensure a safe and enjoyable Superbowl Sunday:
- If you are throwing a gathering of friends and family for the Superbowl, ensure each guest has a designated driver or arrange for ride-sharing.
- Serve plenty of food and non-alcoholic beverages.
- A good rule of thumb is to stop serving alcohol before the end of the game’s third quarter.
- Take car keys away from any guest showing signs of impairment. Call them a cab, or ride-share through Uber, Lyft, or another service.
“When it comes to getting to and from places safely, we’re all on the same team,” Deputy Ernest Telles said. “The choice is simple: Don’t drive impaired.”
Under California law, a person is considered impaired if they have a blood-alcohol level of .08 percent or higher. A DUI conviction can mean a suspended or revoked license and more than $13,000 in fines and related costs. It can also mean jail time if someone is hurt in a DUI crash.
