Super Bowl Weekend To See DWI Crackdown In Suffolk County

YAPHANK, NY — There will be increased patrols on the lookout for drunken drivers leading up to Super Bowl Sunday — one of the highest-risk holidays of the year for alcohol-related accidents, Suffolk Sheriff Errol Toulon's office said.

To keep Suffolk's "roads safe," Toulon's deputy sheriffs will be "on high alert" for drivers driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, his office said Friday.

Super Bowl Sunday is one of the biggest drinking days of the year, and according to statistics, drunk driving incidents increase by around 22 percent on game day, Toulon's office said.

More alcohol-related accidents and Driving Under the Influence-related injuries happen on Super Bowl Sunday than on any other day of the year, not counting New Year's Eve, according to AAA.

Suffolk police will not be adding extra patrols but officers will be "on heightened alert" and will "target motorists driving under the influence," a spokesperson said.

The department encourages anyone who will be celebrating during the game to utilize a designated driver or ride-share service.Toulon said he wants to remind residents that his deputies "are always on the lookout for people driving under the influence, but it will be especially true this weekend."

"If you plan on going out for the big game, first plan on how you will be getting home. We have zero tolerance for drunk and drugged drivers," he said. "If you drink and drive you are putting your life and those around you at risk — have a designated driver, call an Uber, or stay off the roads altogether."

Here are some Super Bowl safety tips from the sheriff’s office:

• If you are a party host, designate a sober driver or arrange for alternate transportation, ensuring guests get home safely.
• Stop serving alcohol at the end of the third quarter and instead provide coffee and dessert.
• If you are going out, have a designated driver and give that person your vehicle keys.
• If you don’t have a designated driver, ask a sober friend for a ride home, call a taxi or rideshare service, or just stay where you are for the night.
• Take a friend's keys if you think they are about to drive while impaired.