• 14
  • February
    2012

Although Colorado DUI arrests over Super Bowl weekend decreased for the second year running, over 250 drivers still choose to drive while intoxicated. Yesterday the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) released information from the increased DUI enforcement effort which went from Friday, February 3rd through Monday, February 6th.

Over 60 Colorado law enforcement agencies arrested 274 individuals suspected of driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs. This continues a decline in Super Bowl weekend DUI arrests over the past two years. In 2010 and 2011 there were 371 and 303 DUI arrests respectively. The hope is that the decrease in DUI arrests also translates to fewer Colorado drunk driving accidents.

Those arrested on Super Bowl Sunday accounted for 125 of the 274 arrests. Officials suspect that heavy snow on February 3rd may have kept many drivers off the roads over the weekend.

Denver had the most DUI arrests with 33; it was followed by Colorado Springs with 26 and Aurora with 21.

Even though there was a decline in DUI arrests, the Chief of the Colorado State Patrol still isn't satisfied. He explained, "Even though we urged people to plan ahead, at least 274 drivers still didn't get the message. Now they are facing fines and costs totaling $10,270. It's time people start listening. Drinking and driving is against the law, it endangers lives and if you do it you will get caught."

There are plans for more rounds of increased DUI enforcement. Efforts will take place on St. Patrick's Day, which this year occurs on a Saturday, and beginning on March 16th the "Heat is On DUI" enforcement effort kicks off.

Source: Colorado DOT, 274 Arrested for DUI over Super Bowl Weekend, 13 February 2012