Studies Show Dangers of Drinking & Driving and College Football

Summer is coming to a close, school is back in session, and you know what that means – FOOTBALL! College football season upon us, much to the delight of the thousands of Virginia college team fans in our area.

Unfortunately, celebrating a new season can also bring danger in the form of drinking and driving. Between tailgating parties, sports bars, and home viewing parties, alcohol consumption and game day are often synonymous. And one too many to drink can lead to carelessness behind the wheel with very serious consequences.

Recent studies show that the drinking and driving that surrounds college football games poses a serious public safety threat. A 2009 University of Colorado study found that college football home games were associated with a 13% increase in DUI arrests in the areas surrounding the games. Additionally, a recent study by the University of Minnesota found that 8% of fans at college football games recorded BAC levels above the legal limit, with fans under 35 being nine times more likely to be legally drunk after the game than others.

These statistics come as no surprise to Car Accident Attorney C. Arthur “Brother” Rutter III, “As much fun as college football can be, the culture of drinking that surrounds it can lead to some extremely dangerous circumstances.”

Rutter adds, “If you plan on drinking alcohol while cheering on your team – make plans ahead of time to arrange a designated driver, call a taxi, or use public transportation.” And if you are on the road, please keep a cautious eye out for intoxicated drivers. If you spot a car swerving or driving erratically, keep your distance and call 911.