VA State Police To Increase Patrols On Super Bowl Sunday For Drunk Drivers

VIRGINIA — The Virginia State Police will be stepping up patrols on Super Bowl Sunday to deter, detect and arrest drunk drivers. An increased number of state troopers will be on patrol during and after the game, the state police said.

For Virginians watching Super Bowl LVI away from home, the state police suggest designating a sober driver, or plan another way to get home. If you don’t have a designated driver, then call a taxi cab, a ride-sharing company, or a family member to drive you home.

The game between the Los Angeles Rams and Cincinnati Bengals begins at 6:30 p.m. Sunday.

On Super Bowl Sunday 2021, there were 26 alcohol-related crashes that resulted in 15 injuries and two deaths across Virginia, according to the state police.

Drivers caught drinking and driving can face jail time, lose their driver’s license and vehicle, and pay up to $10,000 in attorney’s fees, fines, car towing, higher insurance rates and lost wages, the police said.

“If someone makes the choice to drive impaired, then they also run the very likely risk of getting arrested for DUI,” Colonel Gary Settle, Virginia State Police Superintendent, said in a statement Friday.

“Getting behind the wheel when intoxicated is a choice — a choice with deadly consequences for you, your passengers and every other motorist sharing the road with you,” Settle said. “Never drive buzzed, drunk or under the influence.”

The state police also reminded Virginians that forecasts are calling for some snow across parts of the state on Sunday. Residents should keep up-to-date on weather conditions in their area and plan their travels accordingly, the police said. The latest road conditions can be found at www.511virginia.org.