Colorado law enforcement is stepping up its efforts to keep roads safe during one of the biggest drinking weekends of the year. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has announced a DUI enforcement period stretching from Feb. 6 to Feb. 12, with state and local agencies cracking down on impaired driving.
Increased Patrols Across the State
Drivers should expect to see more officers on the roads, particularly in high-traffic areas and near bars, restaurants, and Super Bowl watch parties. Colorado State Patrol, along with 76 law enforcement agencies, will be actively looking for impaired drivers throughout the weekend.
Mesa County law enforcement will also be participating, targeting areas where past incidents have occurred. Authorities say they will be using various methods, including checkpoints and saturation patrols, to identify and arrest intoxicated drivers.
Last Year’s Arrests Paint a Grim Picture
CDOT officials warn that Super Bowl weekend has historically been a dangerous time on Colorado roads. Last year’s enforcement period saw 195 DUI-related arrests statewide. Three of those cases ended in fatalities.
“We’ve seen firsthand how impaired driving shatters lives,” said Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “A DUI doesn’t just cost you money or your license—it could cost someone their life.”
Beyond Super Bowl Weekend: President’s Week Crackdown
If you think the enforcement ends after the final whistle, think again. Another DUI crackdown is set to begin immediately after the Super Bowl period, running from Feb. 13 to Feb. 26 for President’s Week. Authorities say this extended effort is necessary to curb reckless driving, which often spikes during holidays and long weekends.
One officer in Mesa County noted, “The roads don’t magically become safer after Sunday night. People continue drinking, traveling, and making risky decisions. That’s why we’re keeping the pressure on.”
What You Need to Know Before Game Day
To avoid a costly mistake, law enforcement officials are urging the public to plan ahead. Some key reminders for anyone heading out to watch the big game:
- Plan a ride home: Use ride-sharing apps, taxis, or designated drivers.
- Host responsibly: If you’re throwing a party, make sure guests have a way to get home safely.
- Know the risks: A DUI in Colorado can cost thousands of dollars in fines, legal fees, and increased insurance rates.
The message from CDOT and local agencies is clear—if you drink, don’t drive. And that includes cannabis, which is legal in Colorado but still considered an impairing substance under state DUI laws.
The Cost of a DUI: More Than Just a Ticket
For those who think they can talk their way out of a DUI, consider the financial and legal consequences. Here’s a breakdown of what a DUI in Colorado can cost:
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Fines and Legal Fees | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Towing and Impound Fees | $150 – $500 |
| Increased Insurance Rates | $3,600+ over 3 years |
| License Reinstatement | $95 – $230 |
| Alcohol Education Programs | $600 – $1,200 |
| Ignition Interlock Device | $800 – $1,200 |
Beyond financial penalties, a DUI can lead to job loss, travel restrictions, and long-term impacts on personal and professional life.
Authorities Say: “Don’t Drop the Ball”
As fans gear up for the Super Bowl, officials are making one last plea—don’t make a life-altering mistake. “A DUI will ruin more than your weekend, and a crash could ruin someone’s life,” Packard said.
So, whether you’re rooting for your favorite team or just in it for the commercials, make sure your night ends safely. Colorado law enforcement will be watching.
