The Louisa County Sheriff’s Office announced this week that they will have extra patrol on the roadways through February 17.

As part of a statewide effort with the Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau (GTSB), Iowa law enforcement is cracking down on impaired driving in the days leading up to, and following the big game on Sunday. GTSB reminds football enthusiasts that fans don’t let fans drive drunk.

In 2021, over 13,700 drivers were arrested for OWI in Iowa. The average cost for an OWI, including fines, fees, and insurance increases, is $5,000. Those attending a party this weekend are reminded to plan ahead and designate a sober driver or use public transportation or ride-sharing apps. Those hosting friends are encouraged to serve food and non-alcoholic beverages, stop serving alcohol at the end of the third quarter, and take keys away from anyone who has had too much to drink.

Chief Deputy for the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office, Brandon Marquardt echoes this message. “Find a ride. Stay where you’re at,” he said. “It isn’t worth it. We go out at these different times and particularly look for intoxicated drivers.”

GTSB works with city, county, state, and local organizations to develop and implement strategies to reduce deaths and injuries on Iowa’s roadways using federally funded grants.