Along with decorations and holiday music, the festive season also brings an increase in impaired driving incidents.
Looking at the top holidays in 2023 that Colorado State Patrol troopers investigated impairment-involved crashes, the bookends of the holiday week, Christmas Day and the New Year, both were found in the top five. Christmas was tied for fourth place with 18 impairment-caused crashes, and New Year’s had 21.
“While drunk driving is a year-round issue, certain holidays are known to have an increased rate of DUI incidents,” stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Even if someone is fortunate enough to avoid a crash, their chance of a DUI increases during the holidays. Troopers follow the crash trends, and we add more resources to protect innocent roadway users during peak times.”
A DUI arrest can quickly steal the joy from you and your family’s holiday.
The Colorado State Patrol is sharing 10 ways to stop a friend or loved one from driving impaired:
1. Be the designated driver: Take on the role so everyone gets home safely that night.
2. Call a taxi or ride-share: Why wait for the impaired person to do it? Make sure the driver has explicit instructions and help set up payment.
3. Offer to drive their vehicle. If you are sober, drive your friend and their vehicle back home for them.
4. Call a friend or family member for them. And, do this for yourself if you’ve been drinking, too.
5. Join them on public transportation. Take the bus, light rail or walk with them.
6. Collect car keys. If you are hosting, ensure everyone stays the night or gets a safe ride home.
7. Offer nonalcoholic options. If you are hosting, let people stop or take breaks from drinking without asking. Make fun nonalcoholic cocktails.
8. Stop serving. Stop serving alcohol at least two hours before the party is over and still check to see if anyone needs a sober ride home.
9. Refuse to ride. Intoxicated people tend to follow the group decision and refuse to ride in the car with an intoxicated friend. Show them you are serious about their condition and don’t trust their abilities.
10. Let it be known and explain that you care. Politely but firmly tell the person you cannot let them drive home and persist. Don’t argue; be calm and firm.
The Colorado State Patrol is highlighting the consequences an average Colorado driver experiences after being convicted of DUI this holiday season as part of its “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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