Every year, Super Bowl Sunday brings friends, food, and football to millions of Americans. But beneath the excitement of the big game there are a significant increase in car accidents, especially after the final whistle blows.

Trends on the Roads

Studies analyzing decades of U.S. traffic data show that motor vehicle crashes increase dramatically following the Super Bowl broadcast compared with typical Sundays. Both fatal and non-fatal crashes rise by about 40–45% in the hours after the game ends compared to the Sundays immediately before and after it. It’s a spike that outpaces even other well-known high-risk periods like New Year’s Eve.

What’s Driving the Increase?

There are several contributing factors behind this pattern:

• Alcohol Consumption: Super Bowl parties are famous for beer and alcohol. Nearly half of traffic fatalities on Super Bowl Sunday involve drivers with a blood alcohol concentration at or above the legal limit.
• Driver Fatigue and Distraction: Many fans stay up late or hit the road immediately after the game. Fatigue and distracted driving — such as checking scores or texting — add risk.
• Post-Game Rush: Roads clear out during the broadcast but become congested afterward, creating a dangerous mix of impaired and tired drivers trying to get home.

Law Enforcement Response

Because of these trends, many police departments nationwide step up DUI enforcement and sobriety checkpoints on Super Bowl Sunday and the early hours of the following Monday to deter impaired driving.

Safety Tips for Fans

While the Super Bowl is about fun and community, safety should be part of the game plan. Here are a few practical reminders:

• Plan ahead for a sober ride home — designate a driver, use a rideshare, or stay overnight if needed.
• Avoid distractions while driving — set phones to “Do Not Disturb” and wait until you’re parked to check messages.
• Skip the road until after celebration crowds thin — delaying departure by even a couple of hours can lower risk.

Super Bowl Sunday’s increased crash risk is a clear reminder that holiday-like celebrations can have serious public safety implications. If you find yourself or a family member in need of legal advice after a motor vehicle accident, please contact the experts at O’Brien Law for a free consultation.