If you’ve been drinking, do not get behind the wheel, that’s the message from the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) as it launches a new holiday campaign targeting impaired drivers.
CDOT will support the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and 75 local law enforcement agencies for ‘The Heat Is On Holiday Parties’ DUI enforcement period from December 12 to 25.
Drivers may see saturation patrols, sobriety checkpoints and additional law enforcement officers on duty dedicated to arresting impaired drivers.
According to CDOT, as travel increases during the holidays, Colorado tends to see a spike in impaired driving-related crashes and fatalities. So far in 2024, 190 fatalities on Colorado roads have involved an impaired driver, 30% of all traffic fatalities this year.
Drivers are being told to drive sober, follow the speed limit, put distractions away and wear a seat belt to keep themselves and others safe on the road.
“Colorado law enforcement made 1,350 DUI arrests last December alone,” said Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol.
“Avoid a DUI this holiday season by making a plan for a sober ride. Encourage your friends or family members to never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, too. Responsibility is the gift that keeps on giving when it comes to driving sober.”
