The Heat Is On For Impaired Driving

The state has already mounted several The Heat is On campaigns in 2022. As of mid-June, law enforcement has arrested more than 700 DUI suspects this year. The campaigns so far were New Year, Winter Blitz, Super Bowl Weekend, President’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Memorial Day and Summer Blitz. The total is a jump over 2021 at the same point. It’s due in part to 125 arrests over the Memorial Day weekend. The final numbers are not yet in for the recent Summer Blitz DUI enforcement period (June 10-13).

The 4th of July is around the corner

The Colorado Department of Transportation has officially announced its plans for the Fourth of July holiday. Nevertheless, this stretch is well known as being one of the busiest times of year for DUI and impaired driving enforcement. Law enforcement’s heightened measures include:

• Increased numbers of state and local officers on the road
• Stepped-up enforcement while on the job.
• Impaired driving checkpoints

What to do if stopped by law enforcement

The number one goal should be not to make matters worse, so here are some important tips to remember if pulled over:

• Remain calm and be polite
• Have license and registration ready as they approach
• Follow their directions carefully if they ask you to step out of the vehicle.
• Allow them to pat you down if they ask – this is for their safety
• Avoid making statements during the stop or at the station that they could use against you

Drivers still have rights

Like anyone accused of breaking the law, you are innocent until proven guilty, regardless of what the officer may imply. It’s important to remember that law enforcement can make mistakes, so be careful on the roads and do not give the officer incriminating evidence.