The California Highway Patrol is warning against impaired driving ahead of Super Bowl Sunday.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The California Highway Patrol is warning against impaired driving ahead of Super Bowl Sunday.
CHP posted a message urging fans to make smart, responsible and safe decisions, as officers prepare for an increase in impaired driving tied to watch parties.
In Downtown Sacramento, restaurants and bars are preparing for a rush of fans eager to watch the game.
“We’re expecting massive crowds here,” said Will Gonzalez, operating partner of Tom’s Watch Bar in DOCO.
Gonzalez said Super Bowl Sunday is one of the biggest selling days of the year for the restaurant and encouraged customers to arrive early if they plan to watch the game there.
“We’re going to be doing the halftime show. We’re going to be dimming the lights, getting ready for that, for Bad Bunny,” Gonzalez said. “It’s the biggest day of the year for us and we’re getting ready to roll.”
At Tiger, general manager Nathan Berry and head chef Ray Welch said they are also gearing up for Super Bowl crowds, including specialty drinks tied to different teams.
“So we’ve got the 12th Drink. That’s for the 12th man. That’s what Seattle calls their fans,” Berry – a Patriots fan – said. “We’ve got the Gillette Cooler over here, that’s personally my favorite, supporting the Patriots’ colors with the red and the blue.”
But with more celebrations and more alcohol, CHP is emphasizing safety.
“Last Super Bowl, the CHP arrested more than 200 drivers for DUI,” said Sgt. Jeremy Wayland.
Wayland said CHP also responded to more than 130 crashes during last year’s Super Bowl, resulting in one death and more than 60 injuries.
“Designate a sober driver, use ride share. Get home safely is the ultimate goal,” Wayland said.
Even for drivers who do not plan to drink, CHP is advising people to expect heavier traffic, especially before and after the game.
“The goal this year is to remind the public that it’s not worth getting behind the wheel if you’ve been consuming any kind of alcohol,” Wayland said.
CHP is also encouraging drivers to report suspected impaired drivers. Wayland said callers should be prepared to share their location and the make and model of the vehicle.
Caltrans issued its own warning ahead of the weekend, advising people to avoid traveling to the Bay Area if possible and to expect major delays due to Super Bowl-related traffic.
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