Memorial Day Weekend may be over, but the heat isn’t off yet. Denver area residents can expect increased patrols, checkpoints, and enforcement off and on throughout the year. Colorado law enforcement is serious about reducing the number of drivers under the influence, and are planning the crackdowns to help catch drivers who have enjoyed the festivities too much.
“The Heat is On” is an initiative by Colorado law enforcement agencies across the state, aimed at reducing the number of impaired drivers during the start of the summer season. The program, which is running from May 26 to June 26, 2017, saw an increase in DUI checkpoints and heightened enforcement. The crackdown is taking place during the start of summer festivities and began just before Memorial Day Weekend. The campaign occurs at strategic times through the year, centering on holidays that often increase the risk of drunk drivers on the road.
In Colorado, the legal limit is 0.05% to be considered driving while ability-impaired and 0.08% to be considered driving under the influence. Even a drink or two can put you over the legal limit, and result in serious consequences. Law enforcement across the state is encouraging party-goers to plan a sober driver to stay safe on the road and prevent DUI arrests.
Following this enforcement period, the next period will be in time for the Fourth of July, and will run from June 30th to July 5th.
Tips to Prevent a DUI
With the extra enforcement, you should take steps to ensure that you aren’t arrested for a DUI. The Colorado Department of Transportation offers these tips to keep you safe:
- Designate a sober driver, or leave the keys at home and use a ride service, such as a taxi, Lyft, or Uber
- Ensure that your designated driver is sober, and not just less intoxicated
- Eat food, drink non-alcoholic drinks between alcoholic ones, and try not to drink too quickly to reduce intoxication
- Use a blood alcohol content (BAC) calculator or a smartphone breathalyzer to determine your BAC level
- Create and Uber or Lyft code for your guests when hosting a party to encourage them to use one of these services
- Offer food and non-alcoholic drinks when hosting a party
- Only serve alcohol to those over 21
- Stop serving alcohol after halftime or in the third quarter
- Don’t be afraid to take someone’s keys
- Allow guests to spend the night if necessary
- If you are sober, offer safe rides home to other guests
- Wear your seatbelt and require all passengers to do so as well
Driving drunk can not only risk arrest and DUI charges, but can endanger yourself and those around you. Get home safely by always drinking responsibly and arranging a sober ride. The costs of a DUI are high.
Have you been charged with a DUI? Our Denver DUI attorneys are here to help you. Our experienced team can defend you from your DUI charges and protect your driver’s license. Contact the Orr Law Firm today for a no-cost case evaluation.