Make a Game Plan for Super Bowl Sunday to Avoid Drunk Drivers

Beyond the game, the Super Bowl is many people’s biggest excuse for an unforgettable party. This year, as the Philadelphia Eagles face off against the Kansas City Chiefs for another thrilling matchup, excitement is building for the big game, complete with watch parties, delicious food, and unforgettable moments. While the excitement builds, there’s another side to Super Bowl Sunday that’s often overlooked: it’s one of the most dangerous days of the year for drunk driving accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that drunk driving incidents spike by 40% on Super Bowl Sunday in comparison to other days of the year. In Texas, and particularly in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area, the statistics are closer to home and just as alarming. By planning ahead and taking precautions, you can enjoy the Super Bowl safely and protect your loved ones from harm. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe this Super Bowl Sunday.

The Risks: Drunk Driving in Texas on Super Bowl Sunday

As discussed, Super Bowl Sunday consistently ranks as one of the most dangerous days for road accidents due to drunk driving. With alcohol flowing freely at parties and celebrations, many drivers make the mistake of getting behind the wheel when they shouldn’t.

Nationally, nearly half of all U.S. traffic fatalities on Super Bowl Sunday involve alcohol-impaired drivers. Drunk driving claims thousands of lives each year, and celebratory events like the Super Bowl lead to significant spikes in these incidents.

The most recent report from TxDOT reveals a sobering reality:

  • In 2023, 1,505 lives were tragically lost in Texas due to drunk driving accidents.
  • Every seven hours and 32 minutes, a life was lost in Texas due to a driver choosing to drive while intoxicated.
  • Dallas holds a grim distinction: it ranked seventh in the United States for fatal drunk-driving accidents. In 2023, 130 drivers in Dallas were found to have a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.15% or higher, while 181 drivers had a BAC of 0.08% or higher.
  • Dallas County faced a significant toll, ranking second in the state for DUI accidents with 2,275 crashes. This closely followed Harris County, which saw 3,553 DUI crashes.

The consequences of drunk driving are devastating:

Unfortunately, even if you’re driving responsibly, you can still become a victim of a drunk driving accident caused by someone else’s poor decision.

Your Game Plan for a Safe Super Bowl Sunday

To minimize your risk and ensure everyone gets home safely, follow these practical tips:

  1. Designate a Driver: If you’re going out to watch the game and enjoy a few alcoholic beverages, plan ahead by choosing a sober driver. Apps like Uber or Lyft are also great backup options.
  2. Host Responsibly: If you’re hosting a party, serve plenty of non-alcoholic drinks and encourage your guests to arrange safe transportation before they arrive.
  3. Stay Alert on the Road: Keep an eye out for erratic driving, especially late in the evening. If you suspect a driver is impaired, maintain a safe distance, stop or get off the same road, and report them to authorities if needed.
  4. Know the Peak Danger Times: The hours immediately after the game are the most dangerous. Based on the last five years of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are 54 percent more crashes across the country that result in injuries from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. following the Super Bowl. This is more than there are in a typical week during that same period in the weeks before and after the game. Stay off the roads if possible or take extra precautions.
  5. Have a Backup Plan: If your designated driver changes their mind or a ride-share isn’t available, have a contingency plan for getting home safely.

What to Do if You’re Involved in a Drunk Driving Accident in Dallas

Even with the best plans, accidents can still happen. If you or a loved one are injured in a drunk driving accident in Dallas, it’s important to act quickly:

  • Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health and get any injuries treated immediately. Keep a detailed list of your related medical records.
  • Document the Scene: Take photos and videos, gather witness information, and make a note of any details that could help your case.
  • Contact a Trusted Dallas Drunk Driving Lawyer: The Law Offices of Tim O’Hare are here to help. With years of experience handling drunk driving accidents in Dallas and all over North Texas, our team will fight to get you the justice and compensation you deserve.
Make a Game Plan for Super Bowl Sunday to Avoid Drunk Drivers

Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones This Super Bowl Sunday

Don’t let a drunk driver ruin what should be a fun and memorable day. By making a game plan, you can reduce the risks and enjoy the Super Bowl with peace of mind.

If the unexpected happens, know that you’re not alone. The Law Offices of Tim O’Hare are here to guide you through every step of the legal process. Contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced Dallas drunk-driving lawyer.