July was the deadliest month so far in 2025 for impaired driving-related crashes in Colorado, with 26 fatalities recorded. According to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), a total of 124 people have died this year in traffic crashes involving suspected impaired drivers.
As summer ends and Labor Day approaches, CDOT will join the Colorado State Patrol and 56 local law enforcement agencies for The Heat Is On Labor Day Crackdown DUI enforcement period from August 15 to September 3. This effort aims to reduce impaired driving incidents during a time that historically sees an increase in fatal crashes.
Labor Day signals the conclusion of the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer,” a period between Memorial Day and Labor Day that typically has higher rates of fatal traffic incidents. CDOT is encouraging drivers to plan ahead and arrange sober transportation options over the holiday weekend.
“July historically has some of the highest numbers of impaired-related crash fatalities when compared to other months. Impaired driving-related crashes, injuries and fatalities are tragic and completely avoidable,” said Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Don’t make excuses or exceptions. If you’ve been drinking, put down the keys and call a sober friend. You’ll be glad you did.”
Data from recent years shows July consistently ranks among the top months for impairment-related road deaths in Colorado. During this year’s 20-day Labor Day enforcement period, increased patrols, sobriety checkpoints, and additional officers will focus on identifying and arresting impaired drivers.
“No celebration or convenience is worth a life,” said CDOT’s Office of Transportation Safety Director Darrell Lingk. “Whether you use a ride-sharing service, taxi or public transportation, it’s always better to find a safe ride home than risk a DUI, crash or worse.”
In addition to safety risks, those convicted of DUIs face jail time, license suspension, ignition interlock requirements, job loss, and financial consequences averaging $13,530 due to fines, legal fees, insurance increases, and lost wages. Careers dependent on clean driving records may also be at risk.
Earlier this year CDOT launched an educational campaign about Colorado’s Expressed Consent Law: by operating a vehicle in Colorado drivers automatically consent to toxicology testing after a DUI arrest. Refusing such tests is illegal; recent trends show more drivers refusing these tests despite legal penalties designed to deter impaired driving. More information about this law can be found at https://www.codot.gov/choosetotest.
Following Labor Day Crackdown efforts, CDOT will continue with another DUI enforcement period during Fall Festivals from September 11 through October 22.
CDOT is offering new footage from DUI checkpoints for media use that depicts real-life interactions between officers and motorists at these stops as part of its ongoing public education efforts.
