The Colorado Department of Transportation, Colorado State Patrol and about 100 local law enforcement agencies are increasing DUI enforcement over a six-day period. 

Enforcement will begin Friday in an attempt to reduce the number of motorists driving under the influence before, during and after the St. Patrick’s Day holiday.

“We appreciate that people are tired of nights in and are looking for a reason to celebrate. However, feeling cooped up is no excuse to behave carelessly, including driving with drugs and alcohol in your system,” said CSP Chief Matthew Packard.

“Historical trends tell us that more people drink alcohol in the days leading up to St. Patrick’s Day, therefore we will be prepared for an increase in impaired drivers.”

Last year during the same enforcement period, there were 195 arrests of impaired drivers, officials said. 

Last month, during a similar enforcement period from Feb. 12-22, there were 350 arrests, which was 228 fewer than the same period in 2020. 

Law enforcement officials are reminding drivers that even if someone is below the legal blood alcohol content limit, they can still be impaired and arrested for a DUI. 

The legal limit in Colorado is .08% but in 2018, more than 1,200 DUI arrests were made from those with BAC between .05% and .079%, according to CDOT.

“You can be arrested at a lower level if an officer suspects impairment,” said Darrell Lingk, CDOT highway safety office director.

“Don’t take the chance. Eliminate potential consequences of driving impaired by always planning a sober ride.”