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Statewide Crackdown on Impaired Driving Intensifies Ahead of Super Bowl

Statewide Crackdown on Impaired Driving Intensifies Ahead of Super Bowl
© Matheus Ferrero

Governor Kathy Hochul announced this week that the New York State Police and local law enforcement agencies will intensify efforts to combat impaired driving during the week leading up to the Super Bowl. The enforcement campaign, funded by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, runs from Monday, February 3, through Sunday, February 9, 2025, and includes increased patrols, sobriety checkpoints, and underage drinking enforcement.

“As football fans gather across our state to watch the game on Sunday, I’m directing State Police and local law enforcement to elevate their enforcement action to protect New Yorkers from the dangers of impaired and reckless driving,” Governor Hochul said. “We have no tolerance for anyone endangering themselves or others on the road, and I encourage everyone to take the responsible steps necessary to keep our communities safe.”

During the 2024 Super Bowl weekend campaign, law enforcement officers arrested 262 people for impaired driving and issued 8,388 total tickets.

New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “During this campaign, drivers can expect to see sobriety checkpoints, dedicated DWI enforcement patrols, and operations targeting underage drinking and illegal sales to minors across New York State. Our Troopers will also focus on keeping motorists and pedestrians safe by identifying drivers illegally using handheld devices. Partnering with local law enforcement is essential to saving lives and keeping drunk drivers off our roads.”

Authorities urge individuals hosting or attending Super Bowl gatherings to plan ahead for safe transportation. Options include designating a sober driver, utilizing taxi services or rideshare apps, and ensuring guests have arranged sober rides home. The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee and the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation offer the “Have a Plan” mobile app, which helps users locate and call taxi services, program a designated driver list, and provides information on DWI laws and penalties.

Law enforcement officials also remind the public that serving alcohol to guests who subsequently drive and cause a crash can result in liability for the host. They encourage everyone to make responsible choices to ensure a safe Super Bowl weekend for all New Yorkers.