Release: Pick a Sober Driver This Super Bowl Sunday

Editor's Note: The following is a press release from the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office.

Hennepin County Sheriff Rich Stanek is advising motorists to have a game plan for a sober ride for Super Bowl festivities.

Super Bowl parties often start early and run late, so designate a sober driver in advance of kick-off.

“We know how to prevent alcohol-related crashes,” Hennepin County Sheriff Rich Stanek said. “Take the time to make a plan and stick to it on game day.”

• Designate your sober driver before the party begins, and leave your car keys at home if you plan to drink. You may offer to be the designated driver the next time you go out.

• If you have been drinking, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, use public transportation, or spend the night at the party location.

• Add the phone numbers of local cab companies into your phone, so they are just one touch away.  If you are hosting a party, have this information handy to arrange transportation for your guests.

• If you see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact local law enforcement or 911.

• Remember, “buzzed driving is drunk driving.” If you know people who are about to drive or ride with someone who is impaired, take the driver’s keys and help them make other arrangements.

Each year in Minnesota, alcohol-related crashes account for up to 200 traffic deaths and more than 35,000 motorists are arrested for DWI.