Colorado Law Enforcement Targets “100 Deadliest Days” With Holiday Weekend Crackdown

State Patrol and Grand Junction Police coordinate DUI, traffic safety surge for Memorial Day and JUCO World Series

Colorado law enforcement agencies are launching a high-visibility traffic safety campaign ahead of Memorial Day weekend, marking the start of what they call the “100 deadliest days” on American roads.

The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and Grand Junction Police Department announced a joint enforcement surge on Friday, May 23, in an effort to prevent crashes during the long weekend and the JUCO World Series, which annually draws large crowds to Grand Junction.

Five-Hour Surge Along High-Traffic Corridors

The coordinated effort will focus on two of the city’s busiest arteries—North Avenue and Patterson Road—between 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. Officers will be on the lookout for impaired drivers, speed violations, and seatbelt compliance, authorities said.

“These 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day are statistically the most dangerous for drivers, particularly teens,” CSP said in a release. “We’re being proactive now to prevent tragedy later.”

Broader Safety Messaging: Seatbelts, Visibility, and Sober Driving

Beyond enforcement, CSP is emphasizing public awareness. The agency is urging drivers to buckle up, stay sober, and avoid distractions, regardless of the distance they plan to travel.

Pedestrian and cyclist safety is also a key focus:

Pedestrians should only cross at lighted crosswalks and avoid dark clothing at night.
Cyclists are advised—and legally required after dark—to use lights on both the front and rear of their bicycles.

“We’re not just out here to write tickets,” said one officer involved in the operation. “We’re here to save lives.”

Local and Statewide Relevance

The surge operation comes as Memorial Day weekend traffic volumes surge across Colorado. It also coincides with the JUCO World Series, a major regional event that fills hotels and streets in Grand Junction.

The collaboration between CSP and local departments like Grand Junction PD signals a statewide push for holiday safety, especially in areas with high pedestrian and visitor traffic.