COLORADO – Fall and all the upcoming holiday festivities are around the corner, so are law enforcement agents across the state to crack down on impaired drivers.
The Colorado Department of Transportation says the effort is part of this year’s ‘Heat Is On Campaign.’ The campaign involves Colorado State Patrol and nearly 104 law enforcement agencies around the state.
The fall festivity enforcement period will begin September 14 and go through October 22. Last year’s Heat Is On Autumn crackdown led to 1,863 citations of impaired drivers.
“In September and October of last year, Colorado saw 37 alcohol-related fatalities, accounting for 32 percent of the road fatalities during that timeframe,” said Darrell Lingk, Director of the Office of Transportation Safety at CDOT. “No matter what time of year it is, drivers need to make responsible decisions and stay off the roads while impaired. With a number of accessible alternatives to driving, there is no excuse for getting behind the wheel impaired.”
During the most recent DUI enforcement period between August 17 through September 4, 886 drivers were arrested for a DUI.
CDOT is also working to raise awareness of breathalyzer tests being used as DUI-prevention tools and as a final big effort to promote the huge discount on the devices for Colorado residents. CDOT said it worked with BACtrack, a breathalyzer company, this summer to educate the public about testing their blood alcohol content before making decisions on driving.
“We’re pleased more than 2,200 Coloradans have purchased breathalyzers, thereby making our roadways safer,” said Sam Cole, CDOT Communications Manager. “Time is running out, but it’s not too late to take advantage of this discounted price.”
Colorado residents can click here to purchase either the BACtrack Mobile Pro or BACtrack Trace Pro for $49.99 plus $7 shipping and handling. CDOT says these devices typically cost $100.
For more information on the Heat Is On campaign, click here.
