CDOT begins the 100 Deadliest Days with increased DUI enforcement

The Summer Blitz enforcement period starts tomorrow

Most fatal crashes in Colorado occur during the three-month span between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is working to combat this serious issue with increased safety enforcement and outreach as a key component of its Whole System – Whole Safety initiative. CDOT will start by joining forces with Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and local law enforcement agencies in the Summer Blitz DUI enforcement period to apprehend impaired drivers and protect motorists on Colorado roadways. The enforcement period extends from June 14 to June 24.

“More cars on the road, more impaired drivers, and an increase in motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians are all factors that contribute to the spike in motor vehicle fatalities seen during the summer months,” said Shoshana Lew, Executive Director of CDOT. “Impaired drivers pose an entirely preventable risk to our transportation network, making DUI enforcement a key component as we aim to reduce deaths and injuries on Colorado roads.”

Last year’s Summer Blitz enforcement period resulted in a total of 584 DUI arrests from 109 agencies across the state. This year’s enforcement period will include 97 law enforcement agencies, who will be using increased patrols to ensure that motorists are safe on the road.

“CSP and other law enforcement agencies will be on the lookout for impaired drivers during this enforcement period,” said Col. Matthew Packard, Chief of the CSP. “Driving impaired is never worth the risk of endangering a life, including your own. Enjoy the summer season, but make sure that you are sober, focused and buckled up every time you get behind the wheel.”

The Summer Blitz enforcement will be followed by four additional DUI enforcement periods spread throughout the summer, aimed at keeping drivers aware of their consumption and off of the road when impaired. CDOT will also focus on rural Colorado for the July Click It or Ticket summer seat belt enforcement campaign. A seat belt is the single best defense drivers and passengers have to protect themselves from an impaired or distracted driver. Rural residents will be asked to find their reason to buckle up and stay safe throughout the summer season.

For more information on CDOT’s efforts this summer, including impaired driving enforcement plans, arrest totals and safety tips, visit https://www.codot.gov/safety.