Dangerous Day to Hit the Road
LAPD tackles post Super Bowl drunk driving
The Los Angeles Police Department will be out in force today to combat drunken driving related to the Super Bowl.
The Los Angeles Police Department will be out in force today to combat drunken driving related to the Super Bowl.
"The LAPD encourages everyone to support their favorite team and enjoy the company of friends and family, but to always drink responsibly and use a designated driver," said Officer Don Inman of the Traffic Coordination Section.
"The department also wants to remind drivers stopped for being drunk behind the wheel of the consequences -- heavy fines and jail time. Anyone who observes a drunk driver can help make our streets safer by calling 911."
The LAPD will conduct driving under the influence "saturation patrols'" around the city, said Inman.
Alcohol causes a disproportionate amount of traffic deaths on Super Bowl Sunday. In 2008, fatalities in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes accounted for 32 percent of the total motor vehicle traffic facilities.
On Super Bowl Sunday that year, 49 percent of the fatalities occurred in crashes where a driver or motorcycle rider had a blood alcohol level of .08 or higher, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration advises fans watching the game between the Indianapolis Colts and New Orleans Saints at a bar, restaurant or party to designate a sober driver before the party begins; avoid drinking too much alcohol too fast; and to call a friend, family member or taxi if you do not have a designated driver.
Authorities also remind the public to wear seat belts, the best defense against impaired drivers.
