NEWS RELEASE
COLORADO STATE PATROL
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There are few spring storms left, and the warmer weather will soon be here to stay. Family vacations, hanging out with friends, and outdoor social gatherings are big parts of living in Colorado that many of us enjoy. Yet, it is also a time when many people fail to factor in the presence of alcohol and other impairing substances. Despite preliminary numbers showing a decline in impaired driving deaths last year, one in three fatal car crashes involved an impaired driver in Colorado.
The Colorado State Troopers want you to remember all the reasons you should make a plan for a sober ride home.
“Life is full of adventures, whether taking a trip with your family or watching a ballgame with friends, there are so many reasons you should plan a sober ride home,” stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Colorado, remember why it is important to call a rideshare or plan for a sober driver. You can even stay put and crash on the couch. It’s NOT an inconvenience – you are doing the right thing.”
The Colorado State Patrol will kick off the warm weather season by highlighting all the things we sometimes take for granted but become very clear when people stop and reflect. This multi-month campaign called “All Reasons to Drive Sober” will include social media posts, digital ads, radio PSAs and more.
“The effects of alcohol and other drugs directly impact driving behaviors,” explained Col. Packard. “We know that reaction times get longer, peripheral vision decreases and people overestimate their abilities when under the influence.”
The message is simple. If you plan on going out and drinking or taking drugs as a part of that event, you must also include a sober ride home on your preparation list. If you can’t or don’t want to stay at the party’s location until you are sober, there are many options: ride shares, taxis, public transportation, a sober friend/family member, or walk.
Troopers continue to take a low-tolerance approach to the top fatal crash factors, including lane violations, impaired driving and speeding while launching a yearlong campaign called “Drive Safe.” This campaign reminds people to reflect on all the things they love and value and plan a sober ride when planning to celebrate.
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