July was the deadliest month so far in 2025 for impaired driving-related crashes in Colorado, with 26 fatalities reported. Since the start of the year, there have been 124 deaths statewide linked to crashes involving suspected impaired drivers. As Labor Day weekend approaches, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is supporting the Colorado State Patrol and 56 local law enforcement agencies in launching The Heat Is On Labor Day Crackdown DUI enforcement period from August 15 to September 3.
Labor Day marks the end of what is known as the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer,” a period between Memorial Day and Labor Day that historically sees an increase in fatal traffic incidents. CDOT is urging motorists to plan ahead and choose sober transportation options during this time.
“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.”
Over the past five years, July has consistently ranked among the top months for impairment-related deaths on state roads. During this year’s 20-day Labor Day enforcement effort, drivers may encounter increased patrols, sobriety checkpoints, and more officers focused on arresting impaired drivers.
According to data from CDOT’s Traffic Fatalities Dashboard, July fatalities related to impaired driving were: 25 in 2019; 23 in 2020; 30 in 2021; 31 in 2022; 24 in 2023; and provisionally, 28 in July of this year as reported by August 1, 2025.
“No celebration or convenience is worth a life,” said Darrell Lingk, Director of CDOT’s Office of Transportation Safety. “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 posed by impaired driving, those convicted face penalties such as jail time, license suspension and ignition interlock requirements. According to Colorado State Patrol estimates, average costs for a DUI conviction reach $13,530 when fines, legal fees and lost work are included. Careers that require clean driving records can also be at risk after a conviction.
Earlier this year CDOT launched an educational campaign about consequences for refusing blood or breath tests after DUI arrests under Colorado’s Expressed Consent Law—drivers automatically consent to toxicology testing if arrested for DUI while operating a vehicle within state borders. Refusing such tests is illegal and undermines road safety efforts; information about these rules can be found at https://www.codot.gov/choosetotest.
Following The Heat Is On campaign over Labor Day weekend will be another round of heightened DUI enforcement during Fall Festivals from September 11 through October 22.
CDOT is offering new footage from DUI checkpoints for media use which shows real-life interactions between law enforcement officers and drivers at these stops. The department says this material illustrates potential outcomes resulting from impaired driving incidents.
