LOS ANGELES >> As part of Super Bowl Sunday enforcement efforts, police, sheriff and California Highway Patrol personnel will be on heightened alert, ready to stop and arrest any impaired driver.
Knowing that the Super Bowl for many football fans involves parties where alcohol is served, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the California Office of Traffic Safety have teamed with law enforcement agencies across the state for a “Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk” campaign, which urges all fans to pass the keys to a sober driver before the drinking begins.”
“Fans that are impaired can secure a safe ride home by designating a sober driver, using public transportation or calling a taxi or rideshare program,” said sheriff’s Sgt. Robert Hill.
Drivers are encouraged to download the Designated Driver VIP — or “DDVIP” — free mobile app for Android or iPhone users.
The DDVIP app helps find nearby bars and restaurants that feature free incentives for the designated sober driver, including free non-alcoholic drinks and appetizers. The app also has social media tie-ins and a tab for the non- designated driver to call Uber, Lyft or Curb.
Extra officers will be on patrol Sunday in various portions of Los Angeles, including the Hollywood, West Valley and downtown areas, looking for drivers who have had too much to drink while watching the Super Bowl, police said.
Authorities urged people who plan to drive to refrain from any alcohol and to be aware of possible drug impairment. They also urged anyone seeing someone driving dangerously to call 911.
Their cause is being championed by Tennessee Titans tight end Delanie Walker, a volunteer for Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
“Drunk driving is 100 percent preventable,” Walker said. “It’s easier than ever to make a safe choice if your plans include alcohol.”
Walker’s aunt and uncle were killed by a drunken driver following the 2013 Super Bowl in New Orleans, where the Baltimore Ravens defeated the San Francisco 49ers, for whom Walker played at the time.
“Losing the Super Bowl is nothing compared to the real heartbreaking loss I suffered that night,” Walker said.
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