MADD urges Super Bowl fans to prevent tragedy, plan for safe rides home

The Super Bowl is one of the biggest sporting events of the year, drawing millions of fans to watch the game and celebrate with friends and family. However, the festivities often involve alcohol consumption, which can lead to devastating consequences if proper precautions are not taken.

Sheila Lockwood, a national ambassador for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), knows this tragic reality all too well. 

In June 2018, Sheila's oldest son, Austin, was killed by an impaired driver while helping a friend prepare their summer cabin. 

The driver had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.117, nearly three times the legal limit, and was speeding at 70 mph in a 40-mph zone when he slammed intoAustin's side of the vehicle, taking the young man’s life instantly.

"This is a preventable crime. It's not an accident," Sheila said. "An accident constitutes something that couldn't have been prevented, but this was completely avoidable. Austin's life was taken by a selfish and irresponsible decision."

Since losing her son, Sheila has been a fierce advocate against drunk driving, working alongside MADD to raise awareness and enact lifesaving legislation. Her efforts have contributed to the successful passage of the HALT Drunk Driving Act in Illinois, which aims to end impaired driving through the implementation of passive alcohol detection technology in all new vehicles.

As the Super Bowl approaches, Sheila and MADD are urging fans to make a plan for a safe ride home before the festivities begin. 

"Everyone spends so much time getting ready to go out and celebrate, but they often forget to think about how they're going to get home safely," Sheila explained. "It only takes a minute to make that plan, but it can make all the difference in preventing a tragedy."

According to MADD, the average person spends six hours preparing for the Super Bowl, but only one minute thinking about their transportation. This oversight can have devastating consequences, as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that drunk driving fatalities spike by 25 percent on Super Bowl Sunday.

Sheila's and MADD’s message is clear: Planning for a safe ride home should be an integral part of the Super Bowl celebration. Whether it's utilizing rideshare services, designating a sober driver, or finding alternative transportation, taking that extra step can save lives.

"We want everyone to go out and have fun, but safety has to be the number-one priority," Sheila said. "It's all of our responsibility to protect each other and make sure no one has to experience the heartbreak that my family has endured."