The holiday season is a busy time in Fort Collins. Between family gatherings, work parties, college events, and nights out with friends, more drivers are on the road at all hours. While the holidays bring celebration and connection, they also bring an increase in DUI and DWAI enforcement throughout Northern Colorado.
Law enforcement agencies know that impaired driving incidents rise during November, December, and into the New Year. As a result, drivers can expect increased patrols, sobriety checkpoints, and targeted enforcement efforts. Even a brief drive after drinking can result in a traffic stop that leads to serious criminal and administrative consequences.
This time of year is an important reminder for Fort Collins drivers to prioritize safety, make smart decisions, and plan ahead before getting behind the wheel. Avoiding impaired driving protects not only you but also everyone sharing the road.
Colorado law recognizes both DUI and DWAI charges, and many drivers do not realize how easily a DWAI charge can occur. A DUI generally applies when a driver’s blood alcohol concentration is 0.08 percent or higher. A DWAI, however, can be charged at a lower level if alcohol or drugs affected your ability to drive safely.
This means a driver does not have to feel drunk or believe they are over the limit to face criminal charges. Factors such as body weight, food intake, medications, and how quickly alcohol is consumed can all affect impairment. During the holidays, it is common for drivers to underestimate how alcohol affects them.
Both DUI and DWAI convictions carry serious penalties, including fines, probation, alcohol education programs, license consequences, and possible jail time. Understanding how these laws work highlights why cautious decision-making during the holidays is so important.
Holiday schedules often involve late nights, increased social drinking, and more frequent travel. Drivers may leave parties after dark, travel unfamiliar routes, or feel pressured to drive home rather than arrange a ride. All of these factors increase the risk of impaired driving.
In Fort Collins, the presence of Colorado State University adds another layer of activity during the holiday season, particularly around finals, graduation events, and end-of-semester celebrations. Law enforcement agencies are well aware of these patterns and adjust enforcement efforts accordingly.
Even one poor decision can lead to a DUI arrest that disrupts your life well beyond the holiday season. Planning ahead helps eliminate the risk before it begins.
Enjoying holiday events does not mean taking risks on the road. With a little preparation, you can celebrate responsibly and still get home safely. Making transportation decisions before drinking removes uncertainty later in the night.
Consider these practical tips to reduce the risk of a DUI or DWAI:
These simple steps can prevent serious legal trouble and help ensure that everyone arrives home safely.
During heightened holiday enforcement, even cautious drivers may be stopped. If you are pulled over, it is important to remain calm and respectful. You are required to provide identification and basic information, but what you say and do during a stop can affect your case.
If an officer suspects impairment, they may ask you to perform roadside tests or submit to chemical testing. An arrest can lead to immediate consequences, including license actions through the Department of Motor Vehicles, separate from the criminal court process.
Strict deadlines apply to license-related matters in Colorado. Acting quickly after an arrest is critical to protecting your driving privileges and legal rights.
If you are charged with a DUI or DWAI in Fort Collins, having experienced legal representation can make a meaningful difference. Lee E. Christian Law represents individuals facing impaired driving charges and understands how stressful and overwhelming these situations can be.
Every case begins with a careful review of the traffic stop, arrest, and testing procedures. This includes examining whether law enforcement had legal justification for the stop, whether field sobriety tests were administered properly, and whether chemical testing complied with Colorado law. Even small errors can impact whether evidence is admissible.
Our firm focuses on challenging DUI offenses in court by identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and protecting our clients’ constitutional rights. Each defense strategy is tailored to the facts of the case and the client’s specific circumstances.
The holidays should be remembered for meaningful moments with friends and family, not for court dates, fines, or license suspensions. Making smart choices about drinking and driving helps keep Fort Collins roads safer for everyone.
If you or someone you care about is facing DUI or DWAI charges, it is important to know that help is available. We encourage you to contact us to discuss your situation. At Lee E. Christian Law, we are committed to providing clear guidance, strong advocacy, and dedicated representation during this challenging time.
