Drunk Driving DUI Law

Local law enforcement agencies believe new maps will help them better enforce drunken-driving laws.
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With the help of new data-plotting map technology implemented in the past year, Colorado State Patrol at Troop C in Fort Collins can see where the most DUI-related accidents have occurred during the past three years.

As a result, they can target their patrols to those areas.

“I think the biggest and the whole reason we did this is to focus our enforcement efforts,” said CSP Captain Rob Marone. “The maps have helped our troopers to be able to find the areas that need the focus, and that’s something we’ve not had in the past.”

The maps feature color-coded pins indicating the locations of accidents and the types of accidents during each season. Marone said for now, the maps are used to pinpoint where activity occurs. With time, the troop will be able to see if it’s making a difference by targeting patrols.

“It’s our first year doing it, so there is no data to show the effectiveness yet,” Marone said. “I hope it’s something we can continue so we can compare our new efforts to our efforts before.”

The map-plotting technology is not only benefiting the CSP troop but also the patrol division of the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office.

LCSO Major Justin Smith said the collaboration between the two agencies has improved their ability to enforce the law.

“It’s not really in our system to be able to see where the arrests are and where the crashes are going on,” Smith said. “State Patrol is kind of the warehouse for that.”

Smith also said the new maps help patrol deputies know they’re focusing on the right areas.

“It’s helpful for us because it confirms the areas that we thought were high traffic areas and helps us find areas we missed. It’s a value now to take what we think we know and confirm it,” he said.

Marone said the areas his troop patrols most frequently are spots along Interstate 25, U.S. Highway 287, Colorado. Highway 14, U.S. 34 and Colorado 392.

Smith said major highways aren’t the only focus for the Sheriff’s Office’s enforcement. He said deputies focus on roads near liquor establishments and recreation areas, as well.