As Super Bowl Sunday approaches, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is working with state and local law enforcement to encourage safe driving and prevent impaired driving incidents. The agency urges fans to plan ahead for a sober ride if their plans include alcohol.
“Super Bowl Sunday brings people together for the Big Game and no matter who you’re rooting for, remember that safety is always the winning strategy,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “If you’re drinking, don’t get behind the wheel. If you’re hosting a party, don’t let your guests drive impaired. Have a game plan and help prevent tragedies before they happen.”
CTDOT highlights that in 2023, 113 people died in alcohol-impaired crashes in Connecticut. Nationally, data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that 12,429 people were killed in such crashes during 2023, representing nearly one-third of all traffic fatalities across the United States. That year, one person died every 42 minutes due to an alcohol-impaired driving crash.
“Impaired driving is not just illegal, it’s deadly,” said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. “Troopers will be on patrol this Super Bowl weekend to keep roads safe and free of hazards. If you see a suspected impaired driver, please call 911 immediately, as this is a true emergency.”
To promote safety at gatherings, CTDOT recommends providing snacks and non-alcoholic drinks at parties, encouraging guests to choose a sober driver before arriving, reminding everyone to eat and stay hydrated while pacing their alcohol consumption, and never serving alcohol to underage individuals.
“Super Bowl Sunday is a time for neighbors and friends to come together,” said Watertown Police Chief Josh Bernegger, Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee. “Celebrate responsibly by making smart choices, looking out for each other, and always having a sober ride home. Everyone has a role in keeping our roads safe.”
The department also recognizes designated drivers as important contributors to road safety during major events like Super Bowl Sunday.
CTDOT operates statewide from its headquarters in Newington and manages transportation policies through various bureaus focused on engineering, operations, planning and administration. The agency provides traffic updates and public transit options while emphasizing community support through infrastructure grants. It aims to maintain an efficient intermodal network that supports quality of life and economic growth throughout Connecticut (official website).
For more information about drunk driving risks or transportation services provided by CTDOT—including safety initiatives—visit their official website or nhtsa.gov.