Do Football Games Increase Drunk Driving Stats?

For many Texas residents, heading out to watch a live football game is a time-honored tradition. Whether it is a high school game played at a neighborhood field or a highly anticipated NFL or college event, football is a well-integrated part of Texan autumns. For those who enjoy catching a game during this time of year, it is important to understand the risk of becoming a drunk driving statistic. For those who are injured by a drunk driver, as well as the individuals who find themselves charged with DWI, a night at the field can turn into a life-altering event.

The group Mothers Against Drunk Driving estimate that game day drunk driving incidents take place at a higher rate than on days when a football game is not being played. The trend of game-day accidents that result from drinking and driving also seems to be on the rise. In 2013, there were more than 1,700 alcohol-related crashes on days when a Texas football team was playing. That number is up 7 percent from the same statistic for 2012.

Football fans are urged to have their own game plan in place as they prepare to attend or watch a sporting event. This includes having a plan in place to secure safe transportation home if one is planning to drink. It is all-too-easy to get caught up in the moment and make a series of poor decisions regarding one’s level of intoxication. By having a solid plan in place, many DWI charges and alcohol-related crashes could be avoided.

For those in Texas who have made the mistake of drinking and driving, it is important to take a proactive approach in preparing a legal response to those charges. A drunk driving conviction has serious repercussions, and anyone facing DWI should take care to adequately prepare for court. In many cases, it is possible to have charges reduced or to successfully fight DWI charges, but success depends on taking quick action.

Source: cbs19.tv, “Football, drinking, and driving: a dangerous mix“, Risa Morris, Oct. 10, 2014