Checking for alcohol impairment
A deputy checks a suspect for alcohol impairment. Image from San Diego Sheriff’s video

San Diego Sheriff‘s deputies will be out in force on Super Bowl Sunday in an effort to prevent injuries and deaths from drunk driving.

Increased patrols begin prior to the kickoff at 3 p.m. and will continue through 5 a.m. on Monday.

Deputies will be watching drivers for both alcohol and marijuana impairment.

During Super Bowl Sunday in 2023, 33 people were arrested for impaired driving throughout the county. Three of those arrests were made by sheriff’s deputies.

The sheriff’s department offered four tips for staying safe on Sunday:

  • Plan a safe way home before the game begins
  • Before drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home
  • If you’re impaired, use a taxi, ride share, or public transportation
  • If you see an impaired driver on the road, call 911 immediately

Chris Jennewein is Editor & Publisher of Times of San Diego.