KANSAS CITY, KAN. ---- State and local traffic safety officials are adding their voices to the national call for safe roads as people gather to watch the NFL championship game.
“On Super Bowl Sunday, many Kansans will travel to homes, restaurants and bars to enjoy the game with family and friends,” said Kansas Secretary of Transportation Mike King. “Nobody wants this to be a day of tragedy because someone was injured or killed due to impaired driving."
The Kansas initiative is part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s annual Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk campaign.
The recommended game plan includes not only planning ahead but also having safe options if someone drops the ball.
Kansas Department of Transportation Traffic Safety Manager Chris Bortz offered some tips that football fans can and should follow before and after enjoying the game.
“Just as the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots will be working from their playbooks this Sunday, anybody traveling should have a game plan to get home safely,” said Bortz.
Prearranging a sober, designated driver is a key strategy for a safe Super Bowl Sunday. The best options include a sober friend or relative, a taxi or public transportation.
Those who plan to drive should refrain from alcohol and enjoy the game with food and nonalcoholic beverages.
“When you plan ahead, you might just save a life,” Bortz said. “Designate before you celebrate and always buckle up. Every trip. Every time. That’s your best defense against injury if you are involved in a crash.”
