CHP asks motorists to play it safe on game day

The California Highway Patrol is urging motorists to be vigilant on the state’s roadways this weekend, as the Super Bowl is one of the most celebrated sporting events all year and many get-togethers involve alcohol, according to a press release.
The National Football League, the U.S. Department of Transportation, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the CHP are reminding sports enthusiasts “fans don’t let fans drive drunk.” And before choosing to drink, the organizations are reminding residents that they should choose a sober designated driver.
“If you plan on drinking alcohol during the big game, we encourage you to designate a sober driver or plan for alternative modes of transportation such as a taxi cab to get you home safely,” said Russia Chavis, acting director of the Office of Traffic Safety. “A taxi cab may cost you $30, but that’s nothing compared to the $10,000 or more in fees, fines and the stigma that can stem from getting a DUI.”
The CHP is asking any motorist who sees a suspected drunk driver to call 9-1-1 and provide the vehicle’s description, license plate number, location and direction of travel.
“We want everyone to enjoy the game this year, but most importantly, we want everyone to get home safely,” CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow added.
Preliminary figures from 2012’s Super Bowl revealed there were 221 alcohol-involved collisions across the Golden State – while five people were killed and at least 114 were injured, the release states. Statewide, 390 drivers were arrested statewide for driving under the influence by the CHP.