It Could Be You This Halloween

On Behalf of | Oct 17, 2016 | Car Accidents

We all think we’re not the ones who are going to get busted. We all think we’re too smart to let our kids get hurt. We all think we’re not going to let anything happen to anyone.

While all the TV specials feature children dressed up as superheroes and ringing doorbells on quiet, neighborhood streets, the fact is most adults will attend a Halloween bash this year. Many people living in Colorado will enjoy a drink or two with their friends before heading home for the evening, potentially filling the roads on Halloween weekend with buzzed drivers.

The Heat is On Campaign

For the past year the Colorado Department of Transportation has joined with the State Patrol and local law enforcement to conduct safety checks on our roads during holiday weekends. It is at these times that roads are more congested with travelers while others are celebrating, creating a deadly cocktail of drunk drivers and those unfamiliar with the area.

Hundreds of DUI Arrests Made

Over the Halloween weekend in 2015, 250 drivers were arrested on DUI charges during The Heat is On campaign. This year nearly 1,000 were removed from the roads on Labor Day weekend, resulting in safer holidays for everybody.

If You’re Buzzed, You’re Drunk

The best way to achieve safer roads for your neighbors starts at home. The CDOT reminds you that even after only a couple drinks and you feel “buzzed” or “high,” your reaction time and judgment are already compromised. If you are attending a party use a Designated Driver and make sure to combine plenty of snacks with your beer. Don’t get behind the wheel until you are sober.

Stay Awake and Alert and Arrive Alive

If you are your family and friends’ Designated Driver, remember to pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of other vehicles. Worry about other people as much as you worry about your own behavior. Your better judgment will see everyone home safe and sound.

Should you be involved in a drunk driving incident over the holidays, don’t hesitate to reach out to an attorney to provide calm, reasonable counsel and support during a stressful time.

Attorney Chadwick P. McGrady at his desk