NORFOLK, Va. (NPD) – As football fans prepare for Super Bowl LX, the Norfolk Police Department is reminding everyone who will be celebrating to include a sober ride home in their plans.
Norfolk Police, in partnership with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), are highlighting the national “Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk” campaign.
Whether you are cheering for your team or consoling fellow fans, planning for a safe ride home before the festivities begin is essential.
Super Bowl gatherings are among the most attended social events of the year, and with all the excitement comes an increased risk of impaired driving. This initiative highlights the dangers of impaired driving and encourages law enforcement agencies to support high-visibility enforcement throughout the weekend.
For designated drivers
- Take your role seriously – others are counting on you.
- Enjoy the food and non-alcoholic beverages and avoid alcohol or other impairing substances.
- Buckle up and make sure every passenger does the same before you start the car.
- If someone who has been drinking attempts to drive, take their keys and help them find a safe ride.
For party attendees
- Buzzed driving is drunk driving. Plan for a sober ride before you arrive at the party.
- Make sure your designated driver is truly sober. If plans change, call a taxi or rideshare.
- Wear your seat belt – it’s your best defense in a crash.
- If available, use your community’s sober ride program. Drive Safe Hampton Roads offers up to a $15 discount: 757 Sober Ride - Drive Safe Hampton Roads.
For party hosts
- Take steps to make sure guests have a sober ride home and encourage them to choose their designated drivers before they arrive.
- Offer plenty of food, water, and non-alcoholic drink options.
- Never serve alcohol to anyone under 21. Providing alcohol to minors is illegal and can result in criminal charges and civil liability if an underage driver causes a crash.
Super Bowl weekend should be a time of celebration, not tragedy.
The Norfolk Police Department encourages everyone to make responsible choices. Remember: Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk.