Life`s Most Valuable Players: Designated Drivers

You may be running a little late if you haven`t already made plans for Super Bowl Sunday parties. There`s one plan you should definitely have in place -- that`s if you plan on mixing alcohol with the game. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says 86 people died in alcohol-related traffic crashes in 2002. That represents 58% of all crashes that day, ranking it higher than New Year`s or Labor Days. Mothers Against Drunk Driving says they`re just asking party-goers to simply plan ahead. Take time before everyone starts drinking, to decide who`ll be the designated driver, whether you go out to watch the game or invite friends over for drinks. MADD says, if you`re throwing a party involving alcohol, make sure you have room for your guests if they need to sleep over, or provide a way for them to get home. Simple steps we hear about every day, but soemthing MADD says can make designated drivers the most valuable players. "Don`t let someone take the risk of driving and you end up having to go to a funeral instead of the next Super Bowl party," said Donna Lenners, MADD. MADD also says many of those anticipated Super Bowl commercials are for beer, adding up to more than five minutes and millions of dollars in beer ads. Restaruants and bars are encouraged to cut off patrons who have clearly had too much to drink, and make sure they have a safe ride home. And keep in mind, if a guest at your party is involved in a drunk driving accident you could face charges as well.