Police warn drivers to stay sober on Super Bowl weekend

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Indiana State Troopers are reminding football fans to be prepared this weekend.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says Super Bowl weekend continually ranks as one of the year’s most dangerous weekends out on the road. People will be out drinking at bars or watch parties, then get in the car and drive home.

NHTSA statistics show 43 percent of traffic-related fatalities on 2012 Super Bowl weekend were caused by drunk drivers.

Indiana State Police troopers will have 24-hour coverage in Marion County, keeping an eye out for drunk drivers.

“If you’re stopped, you’re pulled over, you better be sober, because you’re definitely going to be going to a jail somewhere. Where ever you’re stopped if you’re over the legal limit. Again, it’s so much easier to have that sober driver and have someone to drive you around or get that taxi cab home,” said Sgt. Rich Myers.

There are lots of options for football fans to get home safely. Because it’s such a dangerous drunk driving day, some companies are offering Super Bowl specials.

Uber is teaming up with Mothers Against Drunk Drivers on Super Bowl Sunday.

If you order an Uber ride Sunday, and use the promo code THINKANDRIDE Uber will donate $1 to MADD.

There’s also a service called “Be My DD.” Customers can order a personal driver for the evening, or order a team of drivers to make sure all your Super Bowl party guests get home safely. That service is typically about $17 per hour, and Sunday riders will get a $20 discount.

Police remind drivers that the cost of a cab or ride share service is cheaper than the cost of a DUI. They also ask people to report any suspected drunk drivers.