St. Patrick’s Day DUI campaign launching statewide

Be sure you’re sober if driving this weekend.

A statewide law enforcement patrol, aimed at identifying and arresting DUI drivers during the St. Patrick’s Day weekend, continues through Monday.

Last year’s St. Patrick’s Day enforcement resulted in 607 arrests for impaired driving, according to a Colorado Department of Transportation news release. Alcohol, marijuana and other drugs can all cause impairment. Last year’s arrests were a 33 percent increase from 2016.

“One impaired driver on the road is too many, let alone over 600,” said Col. Matthew Packard, chief of the State Patrol. “People need to understand that even a single drink can impair your ability to drive and risk the safety of yourself and others. The consequences are simply not worth the risk.”

The State Patrol, CDOT and local law enforcement agencies are participating in the annual crackdown, called The Heat is On.

“It’s no secret that for many, alcohol is a major component of this holiday, but we hope people will plan a sober ride home before they go out and make responsible choices before putting themselves and others in danger,” said Darrell Lingk, CDOT’s transportation safety director.

Nationally, during the 2016 St. Patrick’s Day holiday period, 39 percent of motor vehicle crash fatalities involved drunken drivers, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

For those who imbibe, public transportation — buses, trains, ride-shares and taxis — are safe, available options.

The cost of a DUI can climb above $13,500 when considering fines and legal fees. The statewide saturation patrol this weekend will include the Northern Colorado Traffic Safety Task Force (Larimer County) working in conjunction with the Weld County DUI Task Force. Penalties increase for repeat offenders. Drug recognition experts will be on duty.