DUI Patrols Ramp Up for Super Bowl Sunday in Maryland

Law enforcement agencies across Maryland will be stepping up their game for Super Bowl weekend.

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) announced that it will increase patrols for the main event on Sunday, Feb. 5.

"We want football fans to enjoy themselves during the big game," MDTA Police Chief Colonel Jerry Jones said in a statement. If consuming alcohol, he added: "Be responsible and pass the keys to a sober driver."

The MDTA, which patrols toll facilities and bridges, is not the only agency that will be keeping its eyes on the roads during Super Bowl.

The Howard County Police Department will have an abundance of officers on patrol both before and after the game looking for impaired drivers.

The department reminded drivers to wear seat belts and noted another reason to refrain from driving while impaired – there are stronger DUI penalties after "Noah’s Law" took effect on Oct. 1.

Named for Montgomery County police officer Noah Leotta, who was killed after being hit by a drunk driver while he was working a DUI patrol in Rockville, "Noah's Law" requires anyone in Maryland convicted of drunk driving — including first-time offenders — to have ignition interlocks installed on their vehicles.

Noah's Law also increases license suspension times for drunk driving, police said.

Don't drive while impaired. Here are some other ways to get home:

• Checker Cab: 410-774-0341
• Diamond Cab: 410-947-3333
• Lyft
• Montville Taxi: 410-939-0900
• New Harbor Cab: 410-355-7777
• Raven Cab: 410-609-6272
• Safe Ride: 240-351-1691
• Taxi-Taxi: 301-577-2000
• Uber
• Victory Cab: 410-838-5700
• Yellow Cab Company: 410-609-1200

The New England Patriots and Atlanta Falcons will face off for Super Bowl LI at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 5.