Welcome back to our “Fall Football Season and Traffic Safety” series. In our previous articles, we covered navigating game day traffic and tailgating safety and liability. Today, we’re addressing a crucial topic that can literally save lives: alcohol consumption at games and the importance of designated drivers.
Understanding the Risks
The combination of alcohol and football games creates significant safety concerns:
- According to NHTSA, game days see higher rates of alcohol-related accidents
- The festive atmosphere can lead to overconsumption
- Post-game traffic becomes especially dangerous when impaired drivers are involved
- Tennessee’s DUI laws are strict, with severe consequences for violations
Tennessee’s DUI Laws and Penalties
Understanding the legal consequences of drunk driving can help emphasize the importance of designated drivers:
First Offense DUI
- Minimum 48 hours in jail (up to 11 months, 29 days)
- $350-$1,500 in fines
- License revocation for 1 year
- Mandatory ignition interlock device
- Court-ordered alcohol and drug treatment
Subsequent Offenses
- Increased jail time
- Higher fines
- Longer license revocation periods
- Vehicle seizure possibilities
- Felony charges for fourth and subsequent offenses
The Designated Driver Solution
Choosing a Designated Driver
- Plan Ahead
- Decide on your designated driver before game day
- Rotate responsibility among friend groups for different games
- Consider a backup designated driver
- Responsibilities of the Designated Driver
- Remain completely sober
- Keep track of the group
- Hold onto car keys
- Be prepared to leave when necessary
- Supporting Your Designated Driver
- Offer to pay for their food and non-alcoholic beverages
- Don’t pressure them to drink
- Be respectful of their role
- Consider offering to be the designated driver next time
Alternative Transportation Options
1. Rideshare Services
- Use apps like Uber or Lyft
- Split the cost among friends
- Schedule rides in advance during peak times
2. Public Transportation
- Music City Star train service
- Nashville MTA bus routes
- Special event shuttles
3. Professional Car Services
- Local taxi companies
- Private car services
- Hotel shuttles (if applicable)
Signs of Intoxication to Watch For
Help your friends recognize when they shouldn’t drive:
- Slurred speech
- Impaired coordination
- Mood changes
- Overconfidence about ability to drive
- Difficulty focusing or following conversations
Game Day Alcohol Safety Tips
1. Pace Yourself
- Alternate alcoholic drinks with water
- Eat substantial food while drinking
- Know your personal limits
2. Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Be aware that alcohol + hot weather = increased dehydration
- Consider sports drinks for electrolyte replacement
3. Time Your Consumption
- Stop drinking well before the game ends
- Give your body time to process alcohol
- Remember: coffee doesn’t sober you up
Venue Policies and Resources
At Nissan Stadium
- Alcohol service cutoff times
- Available water stations
- First aid locations
- Security contact information
At Local High School Games
- Zero tolerance for alcohol
- Strict enforcement of parking lot regulations
- Community safety resources
Legal Implications Beyond DUI
1. Civil Liability
- Potential lawsuits from accidents
- Property damage responsibility
- Long-term financial consequences
2. Professional Impact
- Job loss possibilities
- Professional license implications
- Background check concerns
Creating a Safety Plan
1. Before the Game
- Designate your sober driver
- Save important phone numbers
- Plan your route home
- Eat a substantial meal
2. During the Game
- Keep track of consumption
- Stay with your group
- Have backup transportation options ready
3. After the Game
- Check on friends before departing
- Confirm designated driver is still sober
- Use backup plans if needed
Conclusion: A Community Responsibility
Ensuring safe travel after football games is everyone’s responsibility. By planning ahead, supporting designated drivers, and making smart choices about alcohol consumption, we can help keep Nashville’s roads safe during football season.
Stay tuned for our next article in the “Fall Football Season and Traffic Safety” series, where we’ll discuss pedestrian safety around stadiums.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a drunk driving incident, Stillman & Friedland Attorneys are here to help. Our experienced team can provide guidance and representation during these difficult times. Call our Nashville office at 615-244-2111 for a free consultation. We’re also available through our live chat and online contact form.
Let’s keep the celebration safe, Nashville!
Because we care…
Stillman and Friedland
