Law enforcement urges motorists to use designated drivers if they drink during the big game

The big game is this weekend, Feb. 1-3, Fremont County law enforcement officers will be out looking for drunk drivers.
 
As the big game quickly approaches, Fremont County law enforcement officers remind football fans that designated drivers are the best defense against the dangers of drunk driving. The big game is a festive night in homes and bars across America, but if your night involves alcohol, plan for a sober ride home. Remember: Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk.
 
“This should be a fun night, so we want the fans to plan safe rides home if they plan to be out at a party,” said Capt. Steven Sanders of the Wyoming Highway Patrol. “Even one drink can impair judgement. You should never put yourself, or others, at risk because you made the choice to drink and drive. For most, even one drink can be one too many.”
 
Safety should be everyone's top priority: When it’s time to leave the party, make sure your designated driver is actually sober. If he or she decided to drink, you should call a cab, use Rideshare, or call someone else who you know hasn’t been drinking.

Remember: Walking impaired can also be dangerous, so designate a sober friend to walk home with you if needed. If you are driving, remember that sober driving isn’t the only law that should be followed. Make sure you—and your driver—wear your seat belts. It’s your best defense in a crash.
 
If you’re planning on being the designated driver, refrain from drinking alcohol—it’s that simple. People are relying on you. While at the party, enjoy the food, the company and non-alcoholic drinks. Your positive influence could help keep other sober drivers on the right track. If someone you know has been drinking and tries to drive, take their keys and help them get home safely. Even if they make a fuss in the moment, they’ll thank you later. 
 
If you’re hosting a party, prepare plenty of snacks and non-alcoholic beverages for your guests and designated drivers. Ask your guests to designate their sober drivers in advance, or help them coordinate with other designated drivers at the party. Encourage your drinking guests to pace themselves, to eat enough, and to drink plenty of water. Another important reminder: Do not serve alcohol to minors. If an underage person drinks and drives, the person who provided the alcohol could be held liable for any damage, injury or death caused by the underage driver. In fact, you could face jail time if you host a party where alcohol is served to people under age 21.
 
Fremont County law enforcement officers recommend safe alternatives to drinking and driving:
 

• Remember it is never OK to drink and drive. Even if you’ve had only one alcoholic beverage, designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a cab service to get home safely.
• Download the Drive Sober Wyoming mobile app. The app includes quick access to texting or calling a friend for a ride. Also included are Wyoming laws and penalties for driving under the influence, as well as information about the real cost of a DUI.
• If you see a drunk driver on the road, contact law enforcement immediately.
• Have a friend who is about to drink and drive? Take the keys away and make arrangements to get your friend home safely.

For information about WYDOT's work, contact WYDOT public relations specialist Cody Beers at (307) 431-1803.