For many ardent football fans, Super Bowl Sunday has the unique distinction of being one of the best and one of the worst days of the year. That’s because while it’s the single most important and entertaining game of the NFL season, it’s also the last game before the start of what seems like a brutally long offseason.
While it’s understandable how this coming Sunday could prove to be the worst day of the year for these diehard fans, it’s nevertheless important for them to understand that it could also prove to be the worst day of the year for reasons that have nothing to do with football.
That’s because law enforcement officials across the nation — including right here in Florida — will be out on the road in full force looking to crack down on those football fans who made the decision to get behind the wheel after having one beer, one glass of wine or one cocktail too many.
The good news is that there are a few simple tips that both hosts and party guests can take to help ensure they don’t spend Super Bowl Sunday behind bars.
Hosts
- Assert control over any alcohol served, meaning cut off the flow of alcohol by a set time (halftime) and don’t allow guests to have access to what amounts to an open bar.
- Provide food, particularly those high in protein, as it can help slow alcohol absorption in the body.
- Supply guests with multiple non-alcoholic beverage options.
- Allow those who have had too much to drink to stay the night or help them get home safely.
Guests
- Appoint a designated driver ahead of time and ensure that they know this means no alcohol.
- Plan your ride home ahead of time if a designated driver is not an option, meaning arranging a ride with a cab company or lift service, picking up a bus schedule or planning a walking route.
- Avoid drinking excessively as it won’t enhance the viewing experience.
- Ask to stay the night, or for help arranging a ride if you drove yourself but ended up having too much to drink.
Please remember that mistakes happen and that if you are arrested for driving under the influence, it’s important not to panic and to consider speaking with an experienced legal professional as soon as possible.