The kiddos are headed back to school and summer in Colorado is winding down. With Labor Day rapidly approaching, we’re all trying to cram in the last bar-b-ques, back-yard parties, bar hopping, concerts and all the other outdoor activities that the beautiful Colorado weather allows. Sometimes, the one thing all of these activities have in common is alcohol.
Beginning Friday, August 15th, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP), the Department of Transportation (CDOT) and law enforcement agencies have ramped up their statewide Heat is On campaign with vigorous DUI enforcement and DUI education. Although The Heat is On program runs all year, law enforcement targets 12 specific time periods that coincide with national holidays and large public events, which have a higher risk for car accidents involving drunk drivers.
Add into that mix that CDOT is in the midst of their busiest road construction period. There are many night time road closures, reduced lanes and reduced speeds. CDOT workers are at an even greater risk for injury and even wrongful death during this kind of work, so law enforcement will be paying particular attention to construction zones.
The Colorado State Patrol (CSP), the Department of Transportation (CDOT) and law enforcement agencies have begun their statewide Heat is On campaign with vigorous DUI enforcement and DUI education.
With so many options available, there’s no excuse for not planning ahead. And a DUI is going to hit you in the pocketbook. A DUI can cost up to $10,000 and let’s not even talk about your ride in a patrol car and a possible trip to jail or a detox center! Chief of the Colorado State Patrol, Colonel Scott Hernandez said, “Planning ahead and having a sober driver, taking a Lyft or cab, or using public transit will always be cheaper than risking driving impaired and dealing with the consequences of a DUI.”
As another reminder that they’re not trying spoil your summertime fun―just plan ahead, CDOT’s Director of Communication, Amy Ford adds, “We want people to have a good time but also be safe, so for three consecutive Fridays in August we found a way to make it easier than ever to do so. We’ve partnered with Lyft and a Lower Downtown Denver parking lot to provide free overnight parking and $20 Lyft vouchers to the attendees of our parking lot takeover, called Last Call Lots.”
The Heat is On folks! Party on…but don’t drink and drive, there are plenty of alternatives to make your way home safely.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident with a drunk driver, contact The Bendinelli Law firm for a free and confidential consultation with our Denver car accident attorneys.
