New data reveals that four cities in the Denver metro area are ranked among the top 75 U.S. cities with the highest rates of fatal drunk driving crashes.
Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of making responsible choices when driving.
Top-Ranked Cities in Denver Metro for DUI Fatalities
Aurora leads the Denver metro area with the 28th highest rate of deadly drunk driving crashes, according to the latest data.
The city has seen a concerning number of fatal DUI accidents per 100,000 people between 2018 and 2022.
Lakewood follows closely behind at 31st on the list, reflecting a similar trend of high fatal DUI rates.
Thornton and Denver are also ranked within the top 50 cities, with Thornton at 46th and Denver at 49th.
These rankings highlight the widespread issue of DUI fatalities across the Denver metro area, showing that drunk driving is a major concern in multiple cities.
Causes and Risks of Drunk Driving Crashes
Driving under the influence of alcohol significantly impairs a person’s ability to focus on the road, which increases the likelihood of deadly crashes.
Alcohol affects a driver's reaction time, judgment, and decision-making abilities, making it much harder to respond to sudden changes in the environment.
In Colorado, authorities are working to raise awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving.
As DUI crashes remain a leading cause of death on the road, law enforcement and safety organizations continue to push for safer driving practices and educate the public about the risks involved.
Prevention Measures and Alternatives to Drunk Driving
In response to the high rates of drunk driving, Colorado encourages residents to use rideshare services as a safer alternative to driving after drinking.
Options like Uber and Lyft are readily available, offering a much cheaper and safer solution compared to the costs and risks associated with a DUI.
Drivers convicted of DUI are required to attend the Victim Impact Panel, where they hear personal stories from those affected by drunk driving accidents.
This program is designed to help offenders understand the serious consequences of their actions.
Law enforcement also continues to emphasize the importance of planning ahead and avoiding driving under the influence entirely.
