Your Car Safety Playbook for the Big Game

If you’re one of the millions of football fans watching the Big Game this Sunday, you’ve probably already set the details in place. Food, friends, and family will no doubt factor into the big day, but what about getting back home if you’ve been drinking? If you’re traveling for the game, keep these car safety tips in mind so you can return home a champion. 

Know the Rules and Play It Safe

In California, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Driving under the influence (DUI) carries serious repercussions and may lead to a fine and several years’ probation. 

The law doesn’t just apply to cars. Bikes and scooters are considered vehicles and are subject to the same laws. Additionally, those under 21 years old will face severe consequences if caught for underage drinking, as a BAC of just 0.01% will get you arrested.

Always play it safe. If you’ve been drinking, do not get behind the wheel. Wait it out until you’re sober, or call a taxi or rideshare to take you home.

Be a Party MVP

Be a designated driver this year; your friends and family will dance like they just scored their first touchdown! Providing a sober ride home will ensure everyone’s safety (and probably put you in the Host Hall of Fame).

He Who Fumbles Must Be Humble

If you are pulled over for a suspected DUI, always cooperate with the police officer. Under California’s “implied consent law,” the act of operating a motor vehicle is a form of consent to blood alcohol and drug testing. Refusing to submit to a preliminary alcohol screening (PAS) or breathalyzer may lead to a steep fine and a suspension of your license.

Be the QB When Hosting

With great power comes great responsibility. If you’re hosting the big game this year, provide plenty of food and non-alcoholic beverages to your guests, and don’t oversupply alcoholic drinks. 

If someone grabs their keys after they’ve been drinking, call a foul. Do not allow your guests to drink and drive. Instead, call them an Uber, Lyft, or find a sober driver. 

The Calm Before the Score

If you’re traveling for the game, practice defensive driving techniques to stay safe on the road. Apps like Waze or Google Maps can help plan the best route for your drive back and alert you of any traffic delays. If you do encounter traffic, stay cool, calm, and collected. Whatever you do, don’t fall for these common causes of road rage! 

Remember, drunk driving is a major offense in California and leads to serious and fatal traffic accidents. Never let you or your friends drive drunk. Follow these car safety tips and have a ball this Game Day!