LAKE COUNTY — With Super Bowl Sunday this weekend, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) wants to remind motorists about the dangers of drinking and driving.
Across the state and in Lake County, driving under the influence (DUI) is an ongoing problem. Over the last three years on Super Bowl Sunday and the morning after, the county has averaged five DUI arrests and four traffic collisions. Half of those collisions were caused by DUI, CHP officer Adam Garcia said.
“The Super Bowl Sunday weekend DUI incidents are higher averages than other weekends,” Garcia said.
Last year on Super Bowl Sunday there were 214 alcohol involved collisions statewide. Drinking and driving played a role in the deaths of five people on California roads that same day, CHP said.
“We”re asking people to make arrangements to have a designated driver and drink responsibly while enjoying this event,” Garcia said. Not only can drinking and driving result in injury and death, it will cause a legal nightmare as well, CHP said. On the day of the big game last year, CHP officers arrested 468 people for DUI.
“Driving under the influence is a persistent problem,” CHP Commissioner Mike Brown said. “It causes needless and tragic loss of life each year. Prevention is simple, designate a sober driver and arrive alive.”
In an effort to keep impaired drivers off the road, CHP is encouraging motorists to help out by reporting drunk drivers by dialing 9-1-1. “When calling, be sure to note the location and direction the suspected driver is traveling. The color, make and model of the car are also helpful,” a Friday CHP press release stated.
Contact Elizabeth Wilson at ewilson@record-bee.com.
