Don’t risk your freedom, DUI enforcement starts July 3

(COLORADO) — The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is urging drivers to not risk their freedom with a DUI this upcoming Fourth of July.

Starting Wednesday, July 3 through Monday, July 8, CDOT will support the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and 66 local law enforcement agencies for The Heat is On Fourth of July DUI enforcement period.

Drivers may see increased patrols, sobriety checkpoints, and additional law enforcement officers on duty dedicated to arresting impaired drivers during these six days.

“If you’ll be consuming alcohol or cannabis this Fourth of July weekend, leave the keys behind,” said Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Make a plan to get home safely and encourage your friends and family to do the same. Do your part to keep Coloradans safe.”

Don’t see red, white, and blue lights behind your vehicle this Independence Day, if you are hosting or attending a party, follow the following safety tips:

• Collect your guests’ car keys upon arrival. Or encourage them to designate a sober driver or use a ride-sharing service, taxi, or public transportation.
• Call a friend or family member for a guest if they have been drinking or offer them a place to stay if a sober ride home is unavailable.
• Stop serving alcohol at least two hours before the party is over. Provide plenty of food and non-alcoholic drink options.
• Be persistent if a guest is intoxicated and planning to drive home. Explain that you care about their safety and cannot let them get behind the wheel.
• Remember, as a host, you could be held liable if a guest you serve alcohol to gets in a crash.

Last year’s enforcement period concluded with 167 reported DUI arrests. In 2023, 228 people were killed in impaired driving crashes in Colorado. As travel increases, Colorado sees a spike in impaired driving-related fatalities.

In July 2023, there were 91 traffic fatalities in Colorado, 24 of which involved a suspected impaired driver, ranking it the deadliest in 2023.

Remember, crashes are not accidents — they are preventable. Stay safe this July 4th.

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