On Super Bowl Sunday, most people have already chosen which side they’re rooting for. But one organization is encouraging fans to choose which side they will pick when it comes to drinking or driving. Resource Training Center director, Monica Farrar, says it’s important to think ahead for this popular drinking day.
“Have a friend drive, or plan on having somebody pick you up or use public transportation, but not even have a few drinks and get behind the wheel,” said Farrar.
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that 10,322 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes in the United States in 2012. Across the country, drivers are considered impaired with a blood alcohol level of .08 or higher. Farrar says the amount consumed by different people needs to be thought of.
“It’s people’s tolerance. You know, sometimes you see people who can have six or seven drinks and not look impaired. Those people tend to get behind the wheel because they don’t think they’re impaired. So you don’t have to be falling down in order not to drive. Just be aware of what you’re drinking,” Farrar said.
The Resource Training Center teaches people to be credentialed alcohol and substance abuse counselors. When talking to friends about drinking – often a sensitive subject – Farrar says it comes down to stepping in to take action.
“Make a difference with that friend, because a lot of time people know the individual that shouldn’t be driving, and they might be interested in driving, but giving them a ride home and then planning on how they’re vehicle, say the next day. A lot of time people don’t want to leave their vehicle somewhere. So if you step in, you make a difference, you know you can save that person’s life or somebody else’s on the road,” said Farrar.
For game-day hosts, it is important to ensure that there non-alcoholic options available to guests, and make sure they’re planning ahead so that no one becomes a tragic Super Bowl stat.
