Super Bowl Sunday is one of the best days of the year for many Americans who gather with friends and family to eat wings, cheer at their TV, and enjoy what is often an unpredictable and exciting contest between the two best squads in the National Football League. Even those who aren’t excited about the game’s outcome can enjoy the outrageous commercials and theatrical halftime performance. However, alcohol often takes center stage, leading to a disproportionate number of DUI arrests.
Game day parties present a deadly combination of hazards: alcohol consumption, late-night driving, and a higher number of vehicles on the road. It’s no wonder that this year’s game led to 18 arrests, ejections, and drone reports in Tampa, all of which were alcohol-related.
The Popularity of the Super Bowl Contributes to Drinking
The Super Bowl is not only one of the most popular television sporting events globally—with over 100 million people who watched last year’s game—but also happens to be one of the largest drinking festivities of the year. In fact, data from Nielsen indicates that in the two weeks leading up to the game last year, consumers spent $1.3 billion on beer and cider, purchasing 325 million gallons. However, it’s essential in the midst of your football-viewing frenzy to be mindful of the consequences of unsafe drinking.
One reason so many people drink on Super Bowl Sunday is because they’re gathered together with friends and family to enjoy each other’s company, a bowl of chips and guac, and you guessed it, alcohol. It’s hard not to celebrate. However, such a spike tends to become dangerous, considering the other factors at play. Not only are more individuals drinking alcohol, but there are more cars on the road, more people driving late at night, and sometimes poor weather during the winter. People may binge drink while watching the game, which quickly brings BAC to 0.08%—the legal limit for driving in the U.S.—or higher.
Why Are There So Many DUI Arrests on Super Bowl Sunday?
After the game, many people believe that they’re okay to drive after only drinking a few beers. This is perhaps a contributing factor to what is one of the busiest DUI days of the year. Researchers from the University of Toronto who studied U.S. accident data from 27 Super Bowls found that automobile fatalities increase 41% in the hours following the Super Bowl, mostly in the losing squad’s city.
The excessive number of drunk drivers on Super Bowl Sunday isn’t a secret to the police. Each year, Florida law enforcement keeps a watchful eye to preserve the safety of the greater community. On game day, you should expect to see numerous DUI checkpoints and patrol vehicles throughout Florida roadways. If you plan to drink, make sure you come up with a plan to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol.
Tips to Avoid a Drunk Driving Accident on Super Bowl Sunday
A little preparation may go a long way toward avoiding an accident on game day. Here are a few pointers that may keep you out of trouble:
- Designate a driver
- Plan ahead
- Be smart about drinking
- Utilize Uber, Lyft, or another ridesharing app
- Know Florida law
- Behave yourself
- Avoid the roads, even if you’re sober
If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence, whether you think you’re at fault or not, it’s important that you reach out to an experienced West Palm Beach criminal defense lawyer to help you keep your driver’s license and avoid jail time.
Contact an Experienced DUI Defense Lawyer in West Palm Beach
If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence on Super Bowl Sunday, don’t try to handle the situation alone. Hiring the right legal professional is the first step to giving yourself a chance to win your case. For assistance, look no further than The Law Office of Gabriel & Gabriel. You can be assured that Attorney Brian Gabriel will fight for you.
Contact The Law Office of Gabriel & Gabriel to learn the steps you should take after being arrested for DUI. Attorney Brian Gabriel has served the community of West Palm Beach for more than 30 years as a DUI defense attorney. He understands the complexities that are often involved in these cases and can guide you on the right course of action to protect your reputation and future. Call (561) 622-5575 or complete a contact form for a free consultation.