CHARLESTON AFB, S.C. –
Super Bowl Sunday is one of the year's most dangerous days on the nation's roadways, due to impaired driving.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 158 people, representing 51 percent of all traffic fatalities, died during the 2004 Super Bowl weekend due to impaired drivers with blood alcohol concentration levels of .08 and higher.
NHTSA reports that males, ages 21 to 34, are most likely to be involved in automobile crashes, to drive while impaired, and to be among those least likely to wear their safety belts. Research also shows that this same demographic is the core audience for major sporting events such as the Super Bowl.
Alcohol-related crashes -- and fatalities -- can be prevented. Designating a sober driver before the Super Bowl party begins is just one of several easy steps in remaining safe.
After designating your sober driver (wingman), give that person your car keys.
If you don't have a designated driver, ask a sober friend for a ride home, call a cab, or a friend or family member to come get you; or stay where your are and sleep it off until you are sober.
Never let a friend leave your sight if you think they are about to drive while impaired. Remember, Fans don't let fans drive drunk.
Always buckle up -- it's still your best defense against other impaired drivers.