Thirty-five deaths with suspected impairment occurred during 100 Deadliest Days this summer, preliminary data shows

News Release

Datos preliminares indican que ocurrieron treinta y cinco muertes relacionadas con conductores ebrios o drogados este verano durante los 100 días más letales del verano en español.

Statewide - The 100 Deadliest Days, the period from Memorial Day to Labor Day when traffic fatalities typically peak for the year, has come to an end with 37 fatalities involving suspected impairment - a decrease from the 82 deaths in 2025. There have been 72 fatalities with suspected impairment from January to June 2026, a 28.7% decrease (101) in deaths compared to the same period in 2025. While this data is preliminary, these decreases reflect improvement in Colorado's roadway safety.

To ensure this progress continues, CDOT is supporting Colorado State Patrol and 20 local law enforcement agencies for The Heat Is On Labor Day Crackdown DUI enforcement period from today to Sept. 9. During this time, drivers may see saturation patrols, sobriety checkpoints and additional law enforcement officers on duty dedicated to arresting impaired drivers and keeping Colorado's roads safe.

"Consistently making a transportation plan before taking your first drink or using marijuana is the most impactful step you can take to keep these numbers low and protect your community," said Chief of the Colorado State Patrol Col. Matthew C. Packard. "As we transition from summer to fall, the opportunities to celebrate will continue. Lock in transportation first; a plan removes the high-risk, selfish choice to drive when impairment compromises your judgment."

"The first half of the year has shown a decrease in impaired driving deaths in 2026 compared to years prior. However, as fatalities can increase in the later months, we must continue to always drive sober as the fall and holiday seasons approach," said CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew. "The decision to drive after drinking could mean years of increased costs and a lifetime of trauma."

Always arrange a sober ride home if you plan to drink such as choosing a designated driver, using rideshare services, taking public transportation, arranging for a taxi or staying where you are until you are completely sober.

While summer is ending, roads and sidewalks will be busy with morning and afternoon school traffic. And as the days shorten and the weather changes, it's important to remain safe and sober behind the wheel.

Following the Labor Day Crackdown enforcement period, the next DUI enforcement period will be Fall Festivals from Sept. 24 to Oct. 21, the longest enforcement period of the year.

About The Heat Is On

The Heat Is On campaign runs throughout the year, with 15 specific high-visibility impaired-driving enforcement periods centered on national holidays and large public events. Enforcement periods may include sobriety checkpoints, saturation patrols and additional law enforcement on duty dedicated to arresting impaired drivers. For more information, go to HeatIsOnColorado.com. Information about Colorado's DUI laws can be found at NoDUIColorado.org.