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VOORHEES, N.J – Philly is back in the big game and it’s time to celebrate – responsibly. AAA South Jersey, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), wants to remind football fans that Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk.

According to New Jersey State Police, alcohol consumption was a contributing factor in 29.8% of fatal crashes in 2021 – a 21.1% increase in alcohol-related fatalities from 2020.

Additionally, recent survey data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found an unsettling increase of drivers admitting to getting behind the wheel after drinking enough that they felt they were over the legal limit. The nearly 24% increase from 2020 to 2021 highlights the need for fans to call an audible before driving around the big game.

Washington Township Police Chief Patrick Gurcsik predicts an increase in drunk driving arrests in South Jersey surrounding the big game. But his department will be ready. Washington Township Police will have extra officers on patrol all weekend.

"Our message to the residents is to celebrate responsibly over the entire Super Bowl weekend and if you are going to consume alcohol, to have a designated driver or plan so you’re not driving at all," Gurcsik said.

Whether you are hosting a watch party, heading out to a bar, or even going to the game in Arizona, it’s crucial you have a gameplan.

Be The Night’s MVP
Regardless of what happens on the field, you can be the night’s MVP by serving as a designated driver. Enjoy the food, company, a big win, and when it comes time to head home – or to the city to celebrate – make sure everyone gets home safely. Remember, people are relying on you.

See someone attempting to drive after a night of drinking? Intercept their keys and make sure they get home safely.

There is no excuse for drunk driving. If you don’t have a designated driver, ridesharing apps are another winning option.

Several towns in AAA South Jersey’s territory, like Washington Township, have free ride programs, offering residents free Uber or Lyft rides home from local bars and restaurants at night.

“Don’t fumble away your future by driving drunk. There are more options than ever to get you home safely if you have consumed alcohol. There is no excuse for driving intoxicated. It’s just not worth putting the lives of others and yourself in jeopardy,” AAA South Jersey spokesperson Matt Bowker said.

According to the NHTSA, 11,654 people were killed in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes in 2020. Don’t become another statistic. Leave the stats up to the players on the field.