Local Businesses Supports Sober Driving on Super Bowl Sunday

Several businesses in the area are working with the Somerset County Sheriff Office to promote the John R. Elliott HERO Campaign for Designated Drivers.

The campaign is aimed at encouraging safe and sober driving during the Super Bowl game.

On Sunday, Feb. 7, the Sheriff’s Driving While Intoxicated Enforcement Team will be patrolling Somerset County roads, Somerset County Sheriff Frank J. Provenzano announced.

Several local businesses have also agreed to promote the HERO Campaign to its patrons.

Participating businesses include:

• Big Heads pub in Hillsborough,
• Southside Grille & Restaurant in South Bound Brook
• Verve Restaurant in Somerville.

Lexus of Bridgewater and BMW of Bridgewater are supporting the initiative by handing out HERO Campaign brochures and magnets.

“Many people will be attending parties at private residences or going to local bars or restaurants to watch the Super Bowl,” said Provenzano. “If you will be drinking alcohol, make sure you have a plan to ensure a safe return trip. Such a plan starts with designating a driver who will not be drinking. By planning ahead, you can protect yourself, your family, friends and other drivers from tragic loss of life or injury on the road.”

According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drunk driving is a serious problem with severe consequences.

• In 2014, 9,967 people were killed in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes, 31 percent of all crash fatalities.
• An average of one alcohol-impaired-driving fatality occurred every 53 minutes in 2014.

“You don’t want to be a Super Bowl statistic,” said Provenzano. “In addition to the possible dire consequences of driving intoxicated, the financial and emotional toll will impact you, your family and possibly your job,” he said.

For more information about the HERO Campaign, go to www.herocampaign.org.