Huddle up and designate a sober driver for today's Super Bowl

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The Douglas County Sheriff's Office is advising motorists to have a game plan for a sober ride for today's Super Bowl activities and to always buckle up.

During Minnesota Super Bowl weekends 2006-2008, alcohol-related crashes accounted for five of the seven motorists killed and all five were not buckled up. During this same period, 1,474 motorists were arrested for DWI.

"Super Bowl parties often start early and run late, so designate a sober driver before kick-off," said Brandon Chaffins, Douglas County sheriff's deputy. He added that officers will also enforce seat belt laws.

Each year, 75 percent of the impaired drivers killed are not buckled up.

"It's critical that everyone in the vehicle buckles up," Chaffins said. "A seat belt is your best defense on the road against impaired drivers."

Chaffins suggests that Super Bowl party hosts set ground rules for their guests prior to the first coin toss:

--Use a sober driver, cab, public transportation, or plan to crash at the party – not on the road.

--Protect your team; every driver and passenger should be buckled up, before and after the game.

--Do not attempt to drive home if you are impaired. A DWI can put your life in very poor field conditions.

If you need the number to a taxi service, contact the Law Enforcement Center at (320) 762-8151 and they will be glad to get the number to you.

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