Do you have plans to watch the big game on Sunday?

If you’ll be drinking, do you have a game plan to get home safely? Each year drivers across the country are arrested for drunk driving on the evening of the big game. But planning ahead can help keep you and other motorists safe.

So far in 2024, nine people have died in alcohol-related crashes in Minnesota compared to only three during the same period in 2023. In Eden Prairie, officers have made 21 arrests for DWI to date this year.

The most important thing is to make a plan BEFORE you start. This is critical because alcohol impairs your ability to make decisions. If your plan is to drink and THEN figure out how to get home safely, you increase your chances of making a poor (and dangerous) decision that you never would have made if you were sober.

Designate a sober driver and give that person your keys or plan to use a taxi or ridesharing program or public transportation. And, if you know someone who is about to drive, or ride with someone who is impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get where they’re going safely.

There will be additional officers patrolling the metro area for impaired drivers on Sunday night. And remember, a DWI offense can result in the loss of your license for one to six years, thousands of dollars in costs and possible jail time. So make a plan and enjoy the game!