The police could charge someone with driving under the influence (DUI) on any day of the year at any time of day. Yet, they make far more arrests at certain times of year. Why is this?
Colorado law enforcement runs campaigns to catch drunk drivers on certain dates. One of the biggest is known as the “Labor Day Crackdown.” This year it runs from August 16 to September 6. Officers made 694 arrests during the same campaign last year.
The campaign is statewide, so do not be surprised to see checkpoints wherever you travel within Colorado. Remember it’s not just the checkpoints that could catch you, officers will actively be patrolling the roads looking for signs that someone might be drunk at the wheel.
How might these campaigns lead to charges for other things?
The police need a valid reason if they want to pull someone over outside a checkpoint. So, if they see a broken taillight or someone slightly over the speed limit, they may be more likely to stop them during this campaign, because they know once they have stopped them, they can probably then check them for alcohol too. Even if you test negative for alcohol, you might still get charged for the initial reason the police stopped you.
So what can you do?
The simple answer is do not drink and drive – which is solid advice all year around. If you are going out to celebrate Labor Day then book a cab, take public transport or designate a driver.
If for whatever reason you make a mistake and get arrested on suspicion of drunk driving, remember an arrest does not necessarily mean a conviction. With help to explore your defense options, you may be able to beat the charge.