The Colorado State Patrol will conduct increased patrols throughout Jefferson and Clear Creek counties from Friday, March 14 through Sunday, March 16, when many Coloradoans will be celebrating the St. Patrick’s Day holiday.
This special operation is dedicated to stopping impaired driving “in its tracks” to save lives, according to a CSP news release. Troopers will focus on impaired driving on major traffic arteries and feeder roads in the two counties.
“While impaired driving will be the focus, any dangerous driving behavior observed or reported will be addressed,” the Patrol states.
Troopers have investigated 84 fatal crashes in these two counties and 424 crashes that caused serious bodily injury between 2021 and 2024.
“That’s 84 families who have been devastated by the loss of a loved one and at least 424 others who have suffered severe trauma; some life-altering,” the release states. It goes on to say that 73 of these crashes occurred between 5 p.m. and 3 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.
The leading causes of those crashes were lane violations involving speeding, distracted driving and impaired driving. This weekend state troopers will focus on the detection and apprehension of drivers who may be impaired by or otherwise under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of these substances, the Patrol states. “Don’t test your luck, get a sober ride if you plan to celebrate the holiday,” according to the news release.
Anyone who suspects a driver is impaired should contact the Colorado State Patrol by calling *CSP (*277), 9-1-1, or 970-249-4392. Troopers say those reporting an impaired driver should be prepared to provide the following information: vehicle description, license plate number, location and direction of travel, driver description, and the driving behavior being demonstrated. All emergency calls can be made to 9-1-1.
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