CHP Offers Safe Driving Tips for Superbowl Sunday

California Highway Patrol officers will be on extra alert Sunday for impaired drivers before, during and after the Superbowl, police said.

"Last year, Santa Rosa Area CHP officers arrested 11 DUI drivers on Super Bowl Sunday," CHP spokesman Jonathan Sloat said. "Three had been involved in collisions."

This year, Sloat said, officers will increase their focus by "stopping any violation, from speeding to missing license plate lights, in an effort to intercept impaired drivers, and to get them off of the road."

Statewide, the CHP urges football fans to plan ahead for safe driving before the game starts.

"Rather than waiting until the fourth quarter to designate a driver, have a plan in place before the festivities begin," said California Highway Patrol (CHP) Commissioner Joe Farrow. “The safety of your family, friends, and other motorists should be your priority.”

Last year on Super Bowl Sunday, CHP officers throughout the state arrested a total of 452 motorists for driving under the influence, and unfortunately, two people were killed in alcohol-related traffic collisions.

Motorists are also encouraged to assist law enforcement in keeping the roadways safe this weekend by dialing 911 to report suspected drunk drivers. Please provide the dispatcher with a description of the vehicle, including the license plate number, its location and the direction of travel.

Finally, proper use of safety equipment is a very important element while driving. In fact, an overwhelming majority of the state’s motorists have made the wise choice to buckle up; California is among the top four states in the nation for seat belt usage, and well above the national average.

“Seat belts are the most effective equipment to save lives and reduce serious injuries in traffic collisions,” added  Farrow. “It only takes two seconds to buckle up; it is the best protection in case of a collision."