(COLORADO) – Drivers of all ages often feel vulnerable to drunk drivers and this concern only grows during the holiday season. Already in 2021, there have been over 220 deaths caused by impaired drivers in Colorado. That’s why Colonel Matthew Packard, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol, is delivering a special video message this holiday season to remind our Colorado driving community they have the power to make a choice and build a plan before the party begins.
Last year during the month of December (2020), State Troopers charged over 300 motorists for driving while impaired. This year troopers will continue their efforts along with local law enforcement agency partners to remove anyone caught driving under the influence from our roadways. If you want to fully enjoy holiday parties and activities, the message is clear, “plan ahead”.
There are so many options available, it's inexcusable to drive while high or drunk.
- Use rideshare.
- CDOT is offering ride credits up to $15 with Uber.
- Spend the night, if the party is located at a safe place.
- Call a sober friend or family member for a ride home.
- Use public transportation.
- If you are at home, order food in.
- Make plans for your impaired guests to stay.
- Parents, plan with your kids, even the 20-year-olds.
This special video message will get released today at 4:00 p.m. on Colorado State Patrol’s social media pages. The Colorado State Patrol will then run a public awareness campaign through New Year’s Eve called “Don’t Be a Blitzen” to help keep safety at the forefront of people’s minds this holiday season. We hope Coloradans watch and share this message to encourage family and friends to avoid a needless tragedy.
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ABOUT THE COLORADO STATE PATROL
Since our origin in 1935, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) has focused on preserving human life and protecting property within our communities. Our 1,100 members embody the core values of Honor, Duty, and Respect in their daily jobs. In addition to our expertise in motor vehicle safety on the state’s roadways, the CSP is responsible for the Governor and other dignitaries’ protection, commercial motor vehicle enforcement, hazardous materials, homeland security, communications, investigative services, criminal interdiction, community education, aviation operations, and more.