(Jan. 31, 2014) Major Evelyn P. Mallard recently announced that the New York State Police in Troop T will join other law enforcement agencies, across the state, in a special effort to crackdown on impaired and distracted driving on the New York State Thruway during Super Bowl Weekend. These efforts will commence on Friday January 31, 2014 and run through Monday February 3, 2014.
While STOP-DWI and distracted driving efforts across New York State have led to significant reductions in the numbers of alcohol, drug and texting-while-driving related fatalities, lives are still being lost because of crashes caused by impaired and/or distracted drivers. Highly visible, highly publicized efforts like the STOP-DWI Crackdown and texting-while-driving campaigns aim to raise awareness and reduce drunk or distracted driving.
State Police Superintendent Joseph A. D’Amico said, “During this campaign period, drivers can expect to see sobriety checkpoints, dedicated DWI enforcement patrols, underage drinking and sales to minors details across New York State. Our Troopers will also be working to keep motorists and pedestrians safe on New York’s roadways by identifying drivers who are illegally using hand held devices while driving. It is important to partner with our local law enforcement partners to save lives and keep drunk drivers off of our roads.”
Whether attending the game, watching at a bar, or hosting a party, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, TEAM Coalition, the NFL and the New York State Police remind everyone that Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk.
The NHTSA offers these additional safety tips:
If you’re attending a Super Bowl party or watching the game at a sports bar or restaurant:
• Designate your sober driver, or plan another way to get home safely before the party begins.
• If you don’t have a designated driver, then ask a sober friend for a ride home; call a cab, friend, or family member to come and get you; or just stay for the night.
• Use your community’s sober ride program.
• Never let friends drive if they have had too much to drink.
If you’re hosting a Super Bowl party:
• Make sure all your guests designate a sober driver in advance, or arrange for alternate transportation to ensure they get home safely.
• Serve food and include non-alcoholic beverages at the party.
• Stop serving alcohol at the end of the third quarter of the game and begin serving coffee and dessert.
As always, remember to wear your seat belt. It can save your life.