Despite attempts by Colorado law enforcement officials to dissuade drunk drivers from taking to the road over the St. Patrick’s Day weekend and the Colorado Department of Transportation’s (CDOT) Heat Is On campaign to encourage sober drivers to get behind the wheel instead, the number of DUI arrests in the Rocky Mountain State rose in 2013.
According to reports, a total of 481 drivers were arrested for suspected Colorado DUIs during the three-day enforcement period from March 15 to March 18. This year’s figure was up from the 424 DUI arrests seen in 2012.
This was in spite of CDOT’s partnership with Colorado State Patrol, an effort that brought together more than 100 local law enforcement agencies to encourage safe driving practices for the holiday. St. Patrick’s Day is one of 12 enforcement periods around major holidays and events for which the groups come together annually.
However, in a positive development, there were no fatalities from traffic crashes observed during this time. By comparison, four Colorado drivers died as a result of alcohol-related driving last year.
“Law enforcement was out on the roads doing our best to keep people safe,” Colonel Scott Hernandez, chief of the Colorado State Patrol, said following the release of the figures. “Those who foolishly decided to put themselves and others at risk by drinking and driving are now facing serious and expensive consequences.”
But, just because you have been arrested for a DUI, this doesn’t mean the case is closed. If you were accused of operating a vehicle while under the influence this St. Patrick’s Day, seek the best possible legal defense to argue your case. At The Orr Law Firm, our drinking and driving lawyers can assist by using the same practices that have made us Colorado’s leading DUI defense firm.
