Football watch parties, tailgating, couch celebrations…oh my! Football season is known for fun gatherings. It is also known for drinking and celebrating, making roads very dangerous. This year Louisiana football fans have even more to celebrate! We're so excited about LSU winning the College National Championship game, and now we're getting ready to watch Super Bowl LIV. Be a team player and remember: Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk! If you couldn’t afford a ticket and flight to the big game, chances are you can’t afford a DWI.
Have a game plan
A great way to avoid drunk driving is to have a game plan. Just like the coaches come up with a game plan before kickoff, you should make sure you know how you’re getting back home BEFORE you head out to that party. Your safe driving plan may include a designated driver, public transportation, a taxi, a ridesharing service, or something else other than drinking and driving. We all know that one friend or family member who won’t even have the TV on during the exciting game, so talk to him or her ahead of time and ask to be picked up. They’ll probably feel honored you asked.
Sober drivers are the real MVPs
If you’re planning to be a designated driver, know that you’re the real MVP. No matter what, do not drink any alcohol — people are relying on you. Enjoy the food, the company, and the non-alcoholic drinks at the party. Boast about your MVP status on social media using #DesignatedDriver. Your positive influence could help keep other sober drivers on the right track. Sometimes a reminder helps people make better choices.
Don’t just sit on the sidelines, be a responsible party host
If you’re hosting a party, be a responsible host! Serve plenty of food and non-alcoholic drink options. Go for the extra points by having a few football themed snacks, and enjoy these free printables to help with the theme. Make sure your guests are OK to drive before they leave. If they’re not, take their keys. They may whine about it at the time, but they’ll appreciate it once they’ve sobered up. Your guests probably don’t want to head out the door right when the game finishes anyway, so this is a great time to take the dessert out of the fridge, brew that pot of coffee, or even get the cards or board games out. Chat with your guests about the game, life, and everything in between. You can even let guests stay over for the night, dealing with the hassle of the slumber party logistics is better than putting lives at risk.
You know the rules: It’s illegal to drive drunk
Don’t risk getting a penalty called on you. Drive sober or don’t drive. If you do suspect someone is driving impaired, don’t hesitate to safely call 911 and report the driver. Smart Start of Louisiana wants to protect the roads like great players protect the ball. Contact us to see how we can help.
