Law Enforcement Boosts Patrols, Checkpoints for Big Game Weekend

State troopers and local police aim to deter and arrest impaired drivers in New York.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Law enforcement agencies across New York are increasing patrols and sobriety checkpoints from February 3 to February 8 in anticipation of celebrations surrounding the Big Game. The crackdown is intended to identify and arrest impaired drivers, as well as target speeding, distracted driving, and other reckless behaviors. In 2025, the enforcement campaign resulted in over 1,000 impaired driving arrests and nearly 50,000 tickets issued.

Why it matters

Impaired and reckless driving pose serious risks to public safety, especially during high-traffic events like the Big Game. This enforcement effort aims to deter dangerous driving behaviors and keep roads safe for all travelers.

The details

State troopers and local police will have an increased presence and set up sobriety checkpoints throughout New York during the Big Game enforcement campaign. Officers will be on the lookout for impaired, speeding, and distracted drivers, issuing tickets as needed. In 2025, the crackdown resulted in 1,021 arrests for impaired driving and 49,948 total tickets written.

  • The enforcement campaign began on February 3, 2026 and runs through February 8, 2026.
  • The 2025 Big Game enforcement campaign took place the previous year.

The players

New York State DMV Commissioner and GTSC Chair Mark J.F. Schroeder

Schroeder urged celebrants to have a game plan, designate sober drivers, and exercise caution when behind the wheel.

Harding Mazzotti

A law firm in the Capital Region that is giving out $20 Uber vouchers on a first-come, first-served basis to discourage impaired driving.

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What they’re saying

“Whether you're cheering for the Seahawks, the Patriots, Bad Bunny or the commercials, the best way to celebrate the Super Bowl is responsibly. We all play a part in making sure everyone stays safe on the roadway.”

— Mark J.F. Schroeder, New York State DMV Commissioner and GTSC Chair (NEWS10)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow any impaired drivers arrested during the enforcement campaign to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This crackdown on dangerous driving behaviors during the Big Game weekend underscores the importance of personal responsibility and collective efforts to keep roads safe. Celebrants are encouraged to plan ahead, use rideshare or public transportation, and never get behind the wheel while impaired.