 (Colorado) – Whether celebrating a friend’s homecoming, attending the annual office party, or visiting family throughout the season, the holidays are a time to gather, and many traditions involve alcohol or other impairing substances. Colorado State troopers are on the lookout for drivers who exhibit behaviors associated with impairment; in 2023, troopers arrested over 4,100 motorists for DUI. In Colorado, one-third of traffic fatalities involve a driver who is impaired. “If the thought of killing someone doesn’t stop you from driving while impaired, consider the financial impact a DUI will have on your life,” stated Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Fines and attorney’s fees are just the beginning, and if you value your time, plan on devoting hours to getting your life back on track.” A recent calculation finds that the average first-time DUI in Colorado costs $13,530. You will be responsible for paying court costs, towing and vehicle storage fees, alcohol treatment fees, probation supervision fees and much more! Plus, anticipate your auto insurance to jump up significantly for a minimum of three to five years. Looking at interlock devices (9 months for first-time offenders), you will be responsible for all costs. The total price will be comprised of various factors, including installation cost, removal fee, monthly lease fees and calibration fees. If you have a newer vehicle, it may cost you more due to the complexity of your wiring system. The holiday season often brings financial stressors without the added weight of a DUI. Plus, we can’t put a price on the cost of strained relationships and loss of freedom. The Colorado State Patrol is highlighting the consequences an average Colorado driver experiences after being convicted of DUI this holiday season as part of their “Don’t Underestimate Impairment” campaign. Making a good decision “in the moment” while already intoxicated is unlikely. Don’t underestimate the consequences of this choice, and plan ahead for a sober ride. |
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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.