The Colorado State Patrol has announced that it will set up two sobriety checkpoints in June. These checkpoints are part of their efforts to reduce drunk and impaired driving across the state.
The exact locations of the checkpoints have not been revealed yet, but the agency said they will be placed in areas that have seen a high number of DUI-related incidents.
Officers at these checkpoints will be checking for signs of alcohol or drug impairment and may also ask for driver’s licenses, registration, and proof of insurance.
Officials said the checkpoints will happen during the weekend nights, which is when most drunk driving incidents are reported. They also reminded drivers that these stops are legal under Colorado law and help ensure road safety.
The main aim of these efforts is to prevent accidents and save lives. The Colorado State Patrol has been using checkpoints as part of its “The Heat Is On” campaign, which focuses on stopping impaired drivers before they can cause harm.
The agency wants to make it clear that their goal is not to give out tickets or fines, but to raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence. They are encouraging everyone to plan, use a designated driver, call a cab, or use a ride-sharing app if they’ve been drinking.
According to data from the Colorado Department of Transportation, drunk driving continues to be a serious issue in the state.
In 2023, more than 250 people lost their lives in alcohol-related crashes. The hope is that through these checkpoints and public awareness campaigns, those numbers will go down.
Drivers are advised to be patient if they come across a checkpoint and to cooperate with officers. The process is designed to be quick and respectful.
As summer events and gatherings increase, officials say it’s even more important for people to take responsibility and avoid driving after drinking. The checkpoints in June are just one part of a larger statewide effort to keep roads safer for everyone.