Colorado State Patrol Warns Drivers Ahead of Fourth of July DUI Enforcement

Description: Colorado State Patrol is urging drivers to plan for a sober ride during Fourth of July celebrations after Independence Day ranked as the top holiday for DUI-caused crashes in 2025. Troopers warn that impaired drivers will be arrested, including out-of-state visitors.

Countdown to the Fourth of July

Independence Day was the top holiday for DUI crashes in 2025

(COLO) – This week is a milestone year with America celebrating 250 years on the 4th of July and Colorado honoring its 150th statehood anniversary. Whether attending events in downtown Denver, the Rollin’ on the Riverwalk event in Pueblo, or the Red, White, Brews and Tunes festival at Copper Mountain, troopers want motorists to anticipate heavy traffic volume and drive distraction-free with patience. Troopers also ask that drivers deliberately plan their celebration to ensure a sober driver.  

Last year, the Fourth of July was the top holiday for crashes caused by an impaired driver investigated by the Colorado State Patrol. It was also the second biggest holiday for DUI arrests.

“Troopers don’t give warnings to impaired drivers,” stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Choosing to drive after using any impairing substance is gambling with your life and everyone else sharing the road. You risk your license, your finances, and your freedom.”

Year after year, the number of DUI-caused crashes increases during warmer months. July and August were tied with 207 crashes each, as the top months for impairment-caused crashes investigated by troopers in 2025.

“There are many ways to alter the way you behave, think, or feel, and there are many ways to get home safely,” stated Col. Packard. “If feeling different is the sole purpose of drinking or using that drug, then you should know that this change also impacts the way you drive. There is no ‘protective shield’ around driving.”

Colorado’s DUI laws do not exercise leniency on our out-of-state visitors. Anyone who drives impaired on our roadways will be arrested. The Interstate Driver’s License Compact includes 46 states along with the District of Columbia, ensuring that your home state will receive information about your traffic violations and driver’s license suspension. At least where your driver’s license is concerned, what happens on vacation does not stay on vacation. 

If you live in Colorado, a DUI will impact you significantly. While penalties are determined by the court and may vary, they could exceed $13,500.  

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