Weld County Among Highest in Impaired Driving Deaths

New state data highlights ongoing risks on Northern Colorado roads

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Weld County recorded one of the highest numbers of traffic fatalities involving impaired drivers in Colorado in 2025, according to newly released data from the Colorado Department of Transportation, underscoring a persistent safety concern across Northern Colorado roadways. Statewide, El Paso, Weld, Denver, and Adams counties reported the greatest number of impaired driving-related fatalities last year.

Why it matters

Impaired driving is a critical issue affecting local communities across Northern Colorado, with more than half of Colorado's 64 counties experiencing at least one death involving an impaired driver in 2025. The data serves as a call for continued awareness and responsible decision-making behind the wheel to improve road safety.

The details

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, most fatal crashes occur within 25 miles of a driver's home, indicating that impaired driving is often a local, close-to-home danger. The state's Heat Is On campaign operates year-round, supporting law enforcement efforts to reduce impaired driving through high-visibility patrols and public education.

  • In 2025, Weld County recorded one of the highest numbers of traffic fatalities involving impaired drivers in Colorado.
  • More than half of Colorado's 64 counties experienced at least one death involving an impaired driver in 2025.

The players

Colorado Department of Transportation

The state agency that released the data on impaired driving fatalities in Colorado.

Col. Matthew C. Packard

Chief of the Colorado State Patrol, who stated that impaired driving is a crime that kills over 200 Coloradans each year.

Shoshana Lew

CDOT Executive Director, who emphasized that DUIs are avoidable by making the simple choice not to drink and drive.

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What they’re saying

“Impaired driving is a crime that kills over 200 Coloradans each year. There is no distance that can be safely driven while under the influence of alcohol or cannabis.”

— Col. Matthew C. Packard, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol

“DUIs are avoidable by making the simple choice not to drink and drive. It's better to be safe than sorry.”

— Shoshana Lew, CDOT Executive Director

What’s next

The state's Heat Is On campaign will continue to operate year-round, supporting law enforcement efforts to reduce impaired driving through high-visibility patrols and public education.

The takeaway

Impaired driving is a persistent and preventable safety concern across Northern Colorado, with Weld County recording one of the highest numbers of related fatalities in the state. This data underscores the need for continued awareness, responsible decision-making, and community-wide efforts to keep local roads safe for everyone.