Denver metro cities rank among the deadliest for drunk driving crashes

In the United States, data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals that several cities in the Denver metro area have alarming rates of fatal drunk driving incidents. Aurora is ranked 28th, Lakewood is 31st, Thornton is 46th, and Denver comes in at 49th among the top 75 cities. The law firm Van Der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin and Lindheim conducted this analysis, which draws on records spanning from 2018 to 2022. These rankings raise significant concerns about public safety in these jurisdictions. Colorado State Patrol Trooper Gabriel Moltrer has noted that these DUI crashes are entirely preventable and emphasizes the importance of making safe choices after consuming alcohol. In his remarks, Moltrer underscores the extent of the issue, explaining how the mind cannot concentrate fully on driving when under the influence, thus leading to tragic accidents that could have been avoided. He advocates for having a plan in place to avoid driving after drinking, suggesting ridesharing options as a safer alternative. The financial implications of a DUI can be staggering, often reaching upwards of $10,000 to $13,000, in stark contrast to rideshare services, which can cost as little as $50 to $200 depending on the distance and time. This stark comparison highlights the logical choice of using rideshare services to avoid the severe consequences of impaired driving. Furthermore, individuals convicted of DUI in Colorado must attend a panel organized by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). This session is designed to educate offenders about the lasting effects of impaired driving, featuring testimonies from victims and survivors of such crashes. These measures are part of a broader initiative to raise awareness and reduce the incidence of DUI-related fatalities, aiming to enhance community safety and support those affected by impaired driving.