The big game is Sunday and no matter what team you’re rooting for, AAA Western and Central New York wants to remind drivers to have a plan in place to get home safely after a night of festivities. 

Being prepared is essential. Abstaining from alcohol or having a safe ride home are two options that allow you to enjoy the game while being responsible. In 2017, there were 10,874 fatalities in crashes involving drivers with BACs of .08 or higher, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA). It’s imperative that drivers take steps to stay off the road if they are impaired.

Follow these tips to keep roads safer for drivers, passengers and pedestrians:

For drivers 

• Choose a designated driver before you go out. 
• Use a ridesharing service.
• Use a local taxi service. 
• Stay with a friend or book a nearby hotel room if you are impaired. 
• Visit Roadwise Rx to see how your medications affect safe driving. 

For hosts 

• Offer non-alcoholic drink options and never serve minors.
• Stop serving alcohol well before the party ends.
• Remind guests to plan ahead and designate a sober driver. 
• Don’t be afraid to take car keys away from guests who are too impaired to drive. 
• Help arrange alternate transportation or accommodations for guests who need it. 

For everyone

• Always wear your seatbelt. Nearly half of all vehicle occupants killed in 2016 were not wearing seat belts, according to NHTSA. 
• If you spot someone who appears to be an impaired driver when you are on the road, keep a safe distance and call 9-1-1 if it is safe to do so. Do not attempt to stop the vehicle yourself.

As a reminder, AAA WCNY does not participate in Safe Ride/Tipsy Tow.