Skip to content Skip to footer

WSP and MSP Joint Press Release – Roadway Safety During Washington and Michigan National Championship

January 8, 2024

LANSING, MICH. The Washington State Patrol and Michigan State Police are teaming up to sideline impaired driving during the College Football National Championship game between the Washington Huskies and the Michigan Wolverines on Monday, January 8. While there will be a rivalry between the two states on the football field, we’re on the same team when it comes to removing impaired drivers from our roadways.

“This should be a time of fun and family for all Washingtonians, not sorrow and tragedy.” said Washington State Patrol Chief John R. Batiste. “We ask everyone on the roadways to slow down, pay attention, drive sober, and buckle up. When it comes to safe highways, we are truly all in this together.”

Whether you are cheering from Ann Arbor, Seattle, or Houston, Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk. Make sure everyone has a safe and sober way to and from their destination.

“Getting behind the wheel impaired is a choice and it’s the wrong one,” said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the Michigan State Police. “Protect yourself and others on the road by avoiding distractions, wearing your safety belt and only driving sober.”

No matter which team wins, you can be on the winning team by designating a sober driver.

Motorists are encouraged to dial 911 in either state to report impaired drivers.

###

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Spl/Lt. Michelle Robinson, Sixth District Public Information Officer
Michigan State Police, Sixth District Headquarters
Cell: 517-230-3818
RobinsonM16@michigan.gov

Chris Loftis, Director of Communications
Washington State Patrol, Government & Media Relations
Cell: 360-485-3983
Chris.Loftis@wsp.wa.gov

Release sent by Chris Loftis, Director of Communications

Contact us

Mailing Address
Washington State Patrol
PO Box 42600
Olympia, WA 98504

Physical Address
Washington State Patrol
Helen Sommers Building
106 11th Avenue SW
Olympia, WA 98501

Wsp accessibility

The Washington State Patrol is firmly committed to providing an environment that provides the public fair and equal treatment and equal access to its benefits, programs and services as required by state and federal laws. If you require reasonable accommodation under the American with Disabilities Act, or would like to file a grievance please click on the following link:  WSP Public Accessibility and Grievance Process

Follow us

© 2025 Washington State Patrol.