(SOUTHERN COLORADO) — From Dec. 26 to Jan. 2, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) will support the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and 68 local law enforcement agencies for The Heat Is On New Year’s Eve Weekend DUI enforcement period.
During the enforcement period, drivers may see saturation patrols, sobriety checkpoints, and additional law enforcement officers on duty to remove impaired drivers from the road.
“As we approach the end of a long year and celebrate with family and friends, it’s important that we all get home safely to enjoy the New Year. As you join in gatherings and festivities, we ask that you please plan ahead for a safe and sober ride home,” said Rebecca Green, State Executive Director of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Colorado and Wyoming. “Leaving your vehicle at home ensures that you don’t have to wonder if you’re OK to drive. Uber will do the work for you.”
To help encourage drivers to plan a sober ride, MADD and Uber have partnered to provide $7 ride credits. Valid statewide, ride credits can be redeemed using code SAFECO24 in the Uber app starting Dec. 25 through Jan. 1, 2025, while supplies last.
The 2023 New Year’s Eve Weekend enforcement period concluded with 239 reported DUI arrests across the state. Throughout all enforcement periods this year alone, there have been 6,307 DUI arrests. To date in 2024, 190 people have died on Colorado roads due to impaired drivers, 30% of all traffic fatalities this year.
“The heat is on this New Year’s Eve, Colorado. Law enforcement across the state will remove impaired drivers from the road and encourage motorists to start 2025 safely,” said Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of CSP. “Before heading out to a bar or party this holiday, take a minute to make a plan. It could save your life. It could save a loved one’s life. Choose a sober ride every time.”
If you plan to host a party, CDOT provided these tips to help make sure your guests stay safe:
Collect your guests’ car keys upon arrival, or encourage them to designate a sober driver or use a rideshare 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.
