MANTECA, Calif. — Police across the Northern California region are getting prepared for Super Bowl Sunday. They’re looking out for impaired driving before and after the game.
“The police department recognizes on the big game day that increased drinking does happen,” said Sgt. Joshua Sweeten with the Manteca Police Department. “We're just asking that those individuals who choose to travel and choose to drink alcohol, make a plan and plan ahead by designating a sober driver prior to going out.
The Manteca Police Department says they’ll have additional officers on patrol searching for those suspected to be driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Their department has been increasing patrols for Super Bowl Sunday for the last few years due to having designated funding from the California Office of Traffic Safety for the day.
“Because of that, we've been able to have officers out and about last year during the same time during Super Bowl Sunday, we had a total of three DUI arrests," said Sweeten.
While many may think of alcohol and driving when hearing about DUI, police warn that taking prescription medications or smoking marijuana could also impair driving.
"We want to make sure Super Bowl Sunday is remembered for great plays on the field and not for unnecessary risks on the roadway,” said Sweeten. “Before you grab a drink plan ahead, designate a sober driver and it's a win-win for everyone."
California Highway Patrol says they’re not doing specific enforcement periods this weekend like they’d do for holidays, they’re still staying on high alert.
