Denver – With the holidays upon us, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and local law enforcement agencies want to remind Coloradans to plan ahead when celebrating with alcohol – or expect to face serious consequences.

The Colorado State Patrol and more than 45 law enforcement agencies across the state will increase DUI enforcement throughout the holiday period beginning Friday, December 12. Their efforts will intensify during “Office Party Weekend,” December 12-15, and over the New Year’s Eve period, Dec. 31 to Jan. 5.

“The holiday season is a festive time with a lot of parties and celebrations. Unfortunately, some party-goers make the costly decision to drive impaired and end up being arrested for DUI, or worse – killing or injuring themselves or others,” said Colonel Mark Trostel, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “We encourage everyone to plan ahead by designating a sober driver, calling a taxi or taking public transportation. Don’t wait until you’ve been drinking to make a critical decision that could cost you your life or significant expenses.”

Last year in December, 32 people died in traffic crashes in Colorado and 11 of those fatalities involved alcohol. During the 2007 Office Party Weekend and New Year’s Eve DUI enforcement periods, 771 people were arrested statewide for DUI.

To encourage responsible alcohol consumption decisions over the holidays, more than 35 Front Range bars, restaurants and hotels have partnered with CDOT’s “Plan Ahead” campaign to sponsor and hand out $5 taxi vouchers to patrons. Freedom Cabs, Metro Taxi and Yellow Cab (Denver, Colorado Springs and Boulder) will accept the universal “Plan Ahead” vouchers between Dec. 12 to Jan. 5. Another campaign partner, MillerCoors, will sponsor an additional 2,000 $5 Yellow Cab vouchers in Denver as a part of its “You Hold the Key. Never Drive Drunk” campaign. And RTD is once again offering free bus and light rail service on New Year’s Eve in metro Denver. Visit www.PlanAheadColorado.com for tips on celebrating responsibly, as well as where to find overnight parking and public transportation along the Front Range. For those who live in areas without public transportation options, CDOT urges Coloradans to plan ahead by designating a sober driver or spending the night. For people planning to host holiday parties, keep your guest safe by following these tips:

• Provide plenty of seating for guests. Seated guests often put drinks down, while standing guests hold their drinks, sipping frequently.
• Encourage sensible drinking by offering appetizing alternatives to alcoholic drinks.
• Close your bar 90 minutes before your party is over and serve a great dessert with coffee or tea.
• Offer guests alternative modes of transportation (designated drivers, shuttle service, etc).
• Consider arranging for discounted or complimentary rooms when a party is held at a hotel, or similar accommodations for private parties.