Football fans should not let their fellow fans drive drunk

For Antigo Times

The coaching staffs for the Panthers and Broncos are busy preparing game plans for this Sunday’s Super Bowl. If you are hosting or attending a Super Bowl party, you should prepare a game plan that will help prevent drunken driving.

“Last year, there was one traffic fatality in Wisconsin on Super Bowl Sunday, and the goal this year is to have zero,” says David Pabst, director of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s (WisDOT) Bureau of Transportation Safety. “Law enforcement agencies will be particularly focused on preventing drunken driving on Super Bowl Sunday because fans will be at bars and parties before, during and after the game. That’s why we are urging fans to not let their fellow fans drive drunk.”

The key is to plan ahead by designating a sober driver or finding alternative transportation. For a safe and fun Super Bowl celebration, WisDOT offers the following life-saving advice:

• Download the Zero In Wisconsin Drive Sober mobile app for free at zeroinwisconsin.gov. The Driver Sober app has a “Find a Ride” feature, blood alcohol estimator and a designated driver selector to help you get home safely.
• If you’re hosting a party, serve food and have non-alcoholic beverages available. Take care of your guests, and don’t let them drive if they’re impaired.
• Don’t serve any amount of alcohol to anyone under the age of 21. Wisconsin’s Absolute Sobriety Law prohibits drivers under age 21 from having any alcohol in their system while behind the wheel.
• If you’re feeling buzzed, you’re probably over the 0.08 limit and risk being arrested for operating while intoxicated if you drive.
• Bars and restaurants participating in the Safe Ride Program can provide a ride home for patrons. Visit www.tlw.org for more information.
• If you see a vehicle traveling erratically and suspect the driver may be impaired, call 911 (as soon as you can make the call safely).