BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — Bakersfield police are intensifying their efforts to curb impaired driving during Super Bowl weekend, one of the busiest times of the year for law enforcement.
A view of Levi’s Stadium ahead of Super Bowl LX between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots, in Santa Clara. Calif., Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)
Sgt. Rex Davenport of the Bakersfield Police Traffic Division highlighted the issue, noting, “In 2024, we had 16 DUIs – Super Bowl weekend. Five of those are on Super Bowl Sunday.” Last year, the department recorded 11 DUI arrests over the weekend, with six occurring on Super Bowl Sunday, along with several collisions.
Davenport emphasized that impairment doesn’t always mean exceeding the legal limit. “So just because you’re not over 0.08 doesn’t mean you can’t get arrested for DUI. It happens all the time, especially with people who don’t drink very often,” he said.
In 2025, Bakersfield police made 713 DUI arrests and recorded 12 DUI-related fatalities. This year, they have already made 66 DUI arrests.
FILE – Several drivers were arrested and others were cited during a DUI checkpoint over the weekend in Fresno (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
To enhance road safety, the Bakersfield Police Department initiated the weekend with a DUI checkpoint. Residents expressed support for the measure, with one saying, “I think they are wonderful. They are much needed in this town.” Another added, “It makes me feel safer knowing that it is happening and they are checking for people who are drunk driving.”
In addition to the checkpoint, police will conduct increased DUI saturation patrols on Sunday.
FILE- DUI checkpoint (Photo: KBAK/KBFX)
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The California Highway Patrol (CHP) will also be vigilant for impaired drivers throughout the weekend. CHP Fort Tejon Officer DC Williams stated, “We are looking for those impaired drivers who aren’t able to maintain their lanes. Those aren’t safe. Making unsafe lane changes, that are speeding, and driving recklessly.” Williams advised planning ahead, including using a rideshare, to prevent tragedies. “It’s going to lead to somebody getting arrested or…into a crash. But all of these things are easily avoidable if people make the right choice,” he said.