DENVER, CO — As Memorial Day weekend approaches, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is partnering with the Colorado State Patrol and more than 75 local law enforcement agencies to launch an intensive DUI enforcement campaign aimed at keeping impaired drivers off the road.
The enforcement effort, known as The Heat Is On Memorial Day Weekend, runs through May 28 and includes saturation patrols, sobriety checkpoints, and an increased presence of law enforcement officers statewide. The initiative is part of CDOT’s broader strategy to reduce traffic fatalities during what is considered one of the most dangerous travel periods of the year.
Memorial Day marks the start of what officials refer to as the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer” — the stretch between Memorial Day and Labor Day when traffic crashes and fatalities tend to spike. According to CDOT, more than 70 impaired driving-related deaths were recorded during this period last year. So far in 2025, 50 people have lost their lives in crashes involving suspected impaired drivers.
“Memorial Day weekend is often considered the unofficial start of summer and kicks off with pool parties, backyard barbecues and other warm-weather activities,” said Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “But that isn’t an excuse to drive impaired. Colorado law enforcement remains proactive in arresting impaired drivers. Celebrate Memorial Day responsibly and avoid a DUI by planning a sober ride home.”
CDOT data shows that DUI arrests remain a significant concern. During last year’s Memorial Day weekend enforcement, law enforcement agencies made over 715 DUI arrests. This year, the number of DUI arrests during heightened enforcement periods has already surpassed 1,600.
“While the majority of Coloradans make the responsible choice and never drive impaired, it’s critical to remember that driving under the influence of any impairing substance is dangerous and illegal,” said Darrell Lingk, director of CDOT’s Office of Transportation Safety. “Leave the driving to the sober this Memorial Day weekend. If you’ve been consuming alcohol or cannabis, call a sober friend or use a ride-share service to get home. If you have a designated driver, make sure they are truly sober before getting in their vehicle. You can prevent a crash and save lives.”
The message from state officials is clear: impaired driving puts everyone at risk. With additional patrols on the roads and checkpoints in place, drivers are urged to think ahead and avoid getting behind the wheel if they’ve been drinking or using any impairing substances.
CDOT’s most recent DUI crackdown, the Spring Events Weekend enforcement period, resulted in more than 515 arrests across 85 participating agencies.
As Coloradans prepare for barbecues, lake days, and holiday travel, officials urge everyone to make responsible decisions and help keep the roads safe for all.
