NASHVILLE, Tenn., (February 5, 2026) – As fans across the country gear up for Sunday’s matchup, AAA – The Auto Club Group urges drivers to think ahead before the celebrations begin.  The combination of alcohol, parties, and late‑night driving creates elevated risks on the roadway.

“Many fans plan every detail of their celebration except how they’ll get home safely,” said Megan Cooper, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “If you’re drinking, driving should never be part of the plan.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 34 people in the U.S. lose their lives in drunk‑driving crashes every day. That’s roughly one death every 42 minutes.

In 2023, alcohol‑impaired driving crashes claimed 12,429 lives nationwide.

These fatalities are preventable through responsible choices and sober driving.

“When you choose to drive impaired, you risk the lives of everyone in your car and the people you share the road with,” Cooper continued. “It’s a single decision that can quickly result in a lifetime of regret.”

Impaired drivers face serious consequences, and you do not have to be involved in a crash to face them. Law enforcement is out in full force on game day and being pulled over while impaired can result in a DUI that costs $10,000 or more in fines, legal fees, increased insurance premiums, and other expenses. Drivers also face license suspension and, in the worst cases, the emotional weight of causing a crash.

“Too many people think they’ll ‘figure it out later’, and that’s how bad decisions happen,” added Cooper. “If you’re drinking, set up a sober ride before the first drink. Hosts can help prevent tragedy by offering nonalcoholic options and making sure no one drives impaired.”