The Colorado Department of Transportation’s The Heat Is On campaign returns this week for the Winter Blitz DUI Enforcement period, promising an increased officer presence and saturation patrols across the state to apprehend motorists driving under the influence of alcohol, cannabis and other substances.
The Winter Blitz period is one of 14 enforcement periods throughout the year, and will run from Jan. 18-28. Last year, officers across the state arrested more than 600 impaired drivings during the Winter Blitz enforcement.
“Right now, Coloradans are enjoying their favorite winter sports and activities,” said Derrell Lingk, director of the Office of Transportation Safety at CDOT. “Our goal is to help all road users stay safe from those who choose to drive impaired and put everyone at risk.”
During the 14 DUI enforcement periods last year, law enforcement agencies arrested 9,687 drivers, slightly down from the 10,271 arrests in 2017. Preliminary data shows that 216 people died in impaired-related crashes on Colorado roads in 2018.
“We strive to keep impaired drivers off Colorado roadways throughout the year,” said Col. Matthew Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “These enforcement periods are meant to deter drivers from making the poor decision to drive after consuming alcohol or drugs. Sadly, the data shows thousands of people still choose to drive impaired.”