SAN DIEGO (CNS) - Drivers throughout San Diego County should expect increased patrol units on Super Bowl Sunday, deputies said Friday.
Starting 3 p.m. Sunday to 5 a.m. Monday, the San Diego County Sheriff's Department plans to amp up its impaired driving patrols across the county.
According to a release from the department, deputies "will be keeping our roadways safe" by looking for those driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Bruce Mezan never thought a ride on his motorcycle would land him in this situation, but it did -- all because of a drunk driver.
Mezan said a driver “T-boned me and sent the motorcycle flying. I sustained multiple injuries.”
His injuries so severe he lost his leg and had to learn how to live life differently. The crash changing not only his ability to do things but his mission in life.
On Friday, Mezan joined MAAD, AAA, and local law enforcement at a news conference to share his story as people prepare for their Super Bowl festivities.
“At two drinks in, we're not able to assess the risk at the scene as we are at zero drinks in. We go through our lives making spontaneous decisions that it's going to be OK. We just move through the world that way and we have to. And we carry that over to drinking and driving and it has to stop,” Mezan said.
Last year, law enforcement throughout San Diego County arrested 18 people during Super Bowl Sunday.
The sheriff's department offered the following tips:
- 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 sharing service, call a sober friend or family member or use public transportation
- If you see an impaired driver on the road, call 9-1-1 immediately
Additionally, the department stated: “Prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs and marijuana can also impair, especially in combination with alcohol and other drugs.”
