Local law enforcement targets bad driving during New Year's celebrations

Local law enforcement agencies are targeting bad driving during the New Year’s holiday and not just what appears to be intoxicated driving.

The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office is not planning any special patrols, DUI checkpoints nor increased staffing for New Year’s, said spokeswoman Carrie Haverfield. 

Longmont Public Safety is working with the Colorado State Patrol, or CSP, and Colorado Department of Transportation, CDOT, to target reckless behavior, swerving, weaving in lanes, speeding and traffic light violations, Longmont Police Sgt. Eric Lewis told the Leader earlier this month. There is no indication Longmont officers will be setting up specific checkpoints in the city.

Bad driving will be the focus of officers throughout 2022 and not just on New Year’s Eve, Lewis said.

Impaired driving still gets plenty of attention from the CSP and not just during New Year’s, CSP Chief Matthew Packard said in a news release this month. Already in 2021, there have been over 220 deaths caused by impaired drivers in Colorado, Packard said.

Last December, Packard said, State Troopers charged over 300 motorists for driving while impaired.   

This year troopers will continue their efforts along with local law enforcement agency partners to remove anyone caught driving under the influence from our roadways,“ Packard said. “If you want to fully enjoy holiday parties and activities, the message is clear ‘plan ahead.’”

Longmont Public Safety posted on its Facebook page several tips for people who may imbibe during New Year’s:

Plan to Drink?

• Plan a sober ride home before heading out to any holiday gathering. Consider getting a sober ride to your destination so you won’t be tempted to later drive impaired. Options available include taxis, Uber, Lyft and public transit.

• If you have a designated driver, ensure they are truly sober, not simply more sober than you are. Buzzed driving is still drunk driving.

• If you’re ever unsure if you are safe to drive, always err on the side of caution and find a sober ride home.

Hosting a Party?

• Encourage your guests to designate a sober driver or plan for a safe ride home before heading over.

• Create an Uber or Lyft group ride code for your party and share with your guests.

• Provide plenty of food and non-alcoholic drinks and encourage your guests to bring their favorites to keep everyone fed and hydrated throughout the evening.

• Don’t forget that, as a host, if you serve a guest alcohol and he or she gets in a crash, you could be held liable.

• Offer guests a night on your couch if a sober ride home is unavailable.

Are You the Designated Driver?

• If you’re driving, do not drink. Your responsible choice can save lives.

• Offer safe rides to those who may not have prepared a sober ride home.

• Buckle up for safety and require all your passengers to do the same when it’s time to head home.