288 Drivers Arrested Last Year

STATEWIDE — The Fourth of July is a celebration of American liberties and independence — don’t lose yours by driving under the influence. This holiday weekend the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and local police agencies will conduct increased DUI enforcement, aiming to protect Colorado roadways and remind motorists that impaired driving is illegal and carries serious consequences. The heightened statewide enforcement begins today, Friday, July 1, and runs through Tuesday, July 5.

In 2014 there were 66 alcohol-related crashes resulting in 3 deaths during the Fourth of July holiday period.

“CDOT asks Fourth of July celebrators to make responsible decisions and remember that only a few drinks can impair your ability to drive,” said Darrell Lingk, Director of the Office of Transportation Safety at CDOT. “There is no excuse for impaired driving considering the numerous options available for people to get around. Whether it’s public transportation, a designated driver or ride-hailing services, alternatives are readily accessible.”

Last year, 288 impaired drivers were arrested by 99 participating agencies during the July Fourth enforcement period. The Aurora Police Department (27), Colorado Springs Police Department (20) and Denver Police Department (20) recorded the highest number of citations.

“Impaired driving is an issue law enforcement has zero tolerance for,” said Col. Scott Hernandez, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Law enforcement agencies throughout the state will be out in force, cracking down on drunk driving. Expect to see sobriety checkpoints, saturation patrols and increased vigilance in an effort to keep our roadways safe.”

To access CDOT’s The Heat Is On arrest database visit http://apps.coloradodot.info/TrafficSafety/HEAT/index.cfm.

Totals can be sorted based on agency, county, enforcement period, and patrol unit.

The CDOT Highway Safety Office provides funding to Colorado law enforcement for impaired driving enforcement, education and awareness campaigns. 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.