Law Enforcement Steps Up DUI Enforcement for Fourth of July

STATEWIDE — Fourth of July is a special time for Americans to celebrate our nation’s independence, and while many Coloradans will safely enjoy time with friends and family this weekend, unfortunately, there will be some that party irresponsibly. In response to the many drinking-focused celebrations that occur over the holiday weekend, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and local law enforcement agencies throughout the state will be out in force, pulling over and arresting impaired drivers to keep the roadways safe.

The increased DUI enforcement, a part of The Heat Is On campaign, will starttomorrow, July 3, and run until Monday, July 6.

“Over the holiday weekend, we are simply asking that Coloradans act responsibly while enjoying their time with friends and family,” said Darrell Lingk, Director of the Office of Transportation Safety at CDOT. “We want everyone to get to and from their celebrations safely and plan ahead if they will be using alcohol or marijuana. Designate a sober driver or use an alternate form of transportation — there are so many ways to get around safely, there’s really no reason to drive impaired.”

This year over 90 local law enforcement agencies are planning heightened enforcement efforts, such as sobriety checkpoints, increased patrols and more. The same enforcement period last year resulted in 303 DUI arrests throughout Colorado from the 78 law enforcement agencies that participated.

“Choosing to drive while impaired is a decision that affects not only that person, but every other person on the road.” said Col. Scott Hernandez, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Many of our troopers will be sacrificing their holiday weekend to keep our residents and visitors safe, and will be on the lookout for impaired drivers.  We have zero tolerance for impaired driving and hope everyone makes good decisions.  It's very simple - don’t get behind the wheel if you’re impaired.”

A DUI can cost upwards of $10,000 on average. Impaired drivers can also face jail time, the loss of their driver's licenses, higher insurance rates, attorney fees and many more unanticipated costs. An impaired driver not only faces severe consequences when they are caught, but are also a serious danger to pedestrians and motorists. For information about alternative transportation options, including discounts, see NoDUIColorado.org.

The Heat Is On campaign runs throughout the year with 12 specific high visibility impaired driving enforcement periods centered on national holidays and large public events. Enforcement periods can include sobriety checkpoints, saturation patrols and additional law enforcement on duty dedicated to impaired driving enforcement. More details about the campaign, including impaired driving enforcement plans, arrest totals and safety tips can be found at HeatIsOnColorado.com.