Sunday’s showdown comes with a significant spike in drunk-driving incidents.
The Super Bowl is all about excess: VIP-filled commercials, extravagant half-time shows, enticing pre-game attractions for fans, and of course, celebratory drinking. Beer sales peak in the two weeks leading up to the big game, with some reports indicating 50 million cases sold during this period.
Unfortunately, drunk driving spikes after football’s season finale. Research spanning decades confirms driving deaths increase following the game, with alcohol playing a major role. New Orleans, renowned for its vibrant nightlife and legendary cocktail culture, hosts this year’s gridiron showdown emphasizing the need for fans to create a safe drinking game plan.
Flag on the Play: Drunk Driving on Football’s Biggest Night
In 2022, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 13,524 traffic deaths involved drunk driving – 45% of all fatal crashes. Drivers across the country face warnings to stay sober behind the wheel following the NFL’s biggest game, as alcohol consumption and impaired driving often increase during major cultural events.
Studies show traffic deaths rise immediately after Sunday’s championship showdown compared to typical Sundays, highlighting the importance of game day DUI prevention efforts. In 2022, a National Traffic Safety Board (NTSB) member analyzed NHTSA data following five consecutive Super Bowls. He reported 244 traffic deaths occurred in a 12-hour overnight period on pro football’s biggest night. Nearly half were alcohol related. This was 74% higher than the Sunday before the big game and 82% higher than the Sunday after.
Be a Team Player
Impaired driving increases on championship Sunday, but you can be a team player by following these DUI prevention tips to keep yourself and others safe. Here is a playbook for both drinkers and designated drivers:
Make a Plan
Arrange for a designated driver in advance, whether it's someone at the party, a friend who can pick you up, or a rideshare service.
Host a Winning Party
Prioritize party safety by offering plenty of food, non-alcoholic drinks, and ensuring every guest has a sober ride home.
Be Mindful Around Minors
Never serve alcohol to anyone under 21; you may be liable for any damage, injury, or death caused by an underage drunk driver.
Become a Sober MVP
Step up as the ultimate sober football fan and become a designated driver to help loved ones get home safely.
Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk
As football fans across the country prepare for Super Bowl LIX, Mothers Against Drunk Driving® (MADD) asks everyone to prioritize DUI prevention. If you see someone who may be too impaired to drive, step in and help them find a safe ride home. By looking out for one another, we can reduce drunk driving following the big game and keep our roads safe.
“Super Bowl Sunday is all about teamwork, both on and off the field,” says MADD CEO Stacey D. Stewart. “Planning a safe ride home is the ultimate game-winning play—it protects your community and ensures everyone makes it to the next game day.”
For more information on DUI prevention and ignition interlock devices, visit DUI.org.
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