PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — While spirits may be high for Eagles fans this weekend, law enforcement and transportation officials say it’s unwise, dangerous and illegal to get behind the wheel while drunk.
“Drinking and driving is not a game. It’s a deadly combination and a crime, both of which are 100% preventable,” said AAA Mid-Atlantic’s Jana Tidwell.
At a news conference at Chickie’s and Pete’s Monday, PennDOT District 6 Executive Din Abazi said there were 51 crashes during the Super Bowl last year. One was fatal.
And that was without the Eagles playing.
Police say if your Super Bowl party involves alcohol, have a game plan with a designated driver. Or, take advantage of extra SEPTA services that night.
“We will be adding additional service on the Market-Frankford, the Broad Street Line and our trolley tunnel will be open,” said SEPTA Assistant Chief Operating Officer Chrystalle Cooper. “Normally it’s closed Sunday into Monday but that will be open.”
And should the Eagles win, Philly police urge drivers to steer clear of areas where fans will spontaneously spill into the streets.
Pennsylvania State Police plan to have extra sobriety checkpoints, and Corporal Kelly MacIntyre says if you’re drinking while on medication, be extra mindful.
“If you’re on a controlled substance or if you’re taking any medication, that can really affect you and make your blood alcohol concentration higher,” MacIntyre said.