Enhanced DUI Patrols by Northern Colorado Police during Fourth of July Weekend
In the spirit of the Fourth of July celebrations, law enforcement agencies in Northern Colorado have stepped up their efforts to ensure safety on the roads. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), Colorado State Patrol, and 51 local agencies are participating in the "The Heat Is On" DUI enforcement campaign from July 2 to July 7 [1][2][3][5].
This intensified focus on DUI enforcement comes in response to a troubling trend. July has been the deadliest month for impaired driving-related fatalities in Colorado, with 28 lives lost in July 2024 alone [1][3]. Since 2019, 31 people have died in Colorado during the Independence Day period in crashes involving impaired drivers [6].
The campaign aims to prevent impaired driving crashes during the "100 Deadliest Days of Summer," a period between Memorial Day and Labor Day known for increased road fatalities [7].
To help promote safety during these holidays, authorities are offering advice for hosting a safe Fourth of July gathering. Tips include offering non-alcoholic options and plenty of food, cutting off alcohol service two hours before the event ends, collecting car keys, encouraging designated drivers or ride-share use, and intervening when necessary to prevent impaired guests from driving [4].
Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol, urged people to make a plan for their Fourth of July festivities and avoid impaired driving at all costs [3]. He emphasized the severe consequences of impaired driving and the importance of responsible planning to reduce traffic fatalities during this busy summer period.
In an effort to encourage responsible behaviour, The Wilhite Law Firm is offering $20 reimbursement credits for Uber or Lyft rides between July 3 and 6 as part of its Holiday Rideshare Program [8].
For more information, including safety tips, enforcement schedules, and resources on Colorado DUI laws, visit HeatIsOnColorado.com, codot.gov/choosetotest, or NoDUIColorado.org. By driving in Colorado, you consent to toxicology testing if arrested for DUI [9].
As the Fourth of July approaches, it's essential to remember the importance of safety and responsible decision-making. By following these tips and guidelines, we can all contribute to a safer holiday season for everyone.
- The upcoming Fourth of July celebrations in Larimer County and Northern Colorado will see an increase in safety measures, as law enforcement agencies are stepping up efforts to prevent DUI incidents.
- The Colorado Department of Transportation, Colorado State Patrol, and local agencies are coordinating the "The Heat Is On" DUI enforcement campaign from July 2 to July 7, in response to the high number of impaired driving-related fatalities in July.
- In addition to enforcement measures, authorities are offering advice for hosting safe Fourth of July gatherings, encouraging non-alcoholic options, collecting car keys, and encouraging designated drivers or ride-share use.
- To further encourage responsible behavior during the Independence Day period, The Wilhite Law Firm is offering $20 reimbursement credits for Uber or Lyft rides between July 3 and 6 as part of its Holiday Rideshare Program.
