Last year's crash reports from the Colorado Springs police and the Colorado State Patrol indicate that 47 people were killed in traffic-related fatalities in El Paso and Teller Counties. That is a small increase from the 44 people who died on the roads in 2010.

Surprisingly, the review found that weather did not play a role in most of the accidents. Many of the accidents occurred when the skies were clear. A high number of accidents - 12 of the 43 crashes or 28 percent - involved alcohol and driving under the influence. Deaths and injury as a result of DUI seemed more likely to cause an accident than weather in 2011.

Some of the other causes were failure to wear seat belts, as well as reckless and inattentive driving.

Under Colorado law, it is generally a criminal misdemeanor to drive while under the influence of alcohol. However, for a second or third offense the charges will become more severe. If an injury or death occurs, vehicular assault or vehicular homicide charges might be filed.

Punishment for a first DUI offense is likely to include jail time, fines and public work service. Subsequent offenses will result in longer periods of imprisonment, higher fines, more community service and a substance abuse evaluation and court ordered alcohol abuse treatment. In many cases the court will also order that an ignition interlock device as a condition or bond or probation.

If ever stopped for suspicion of driving under the influence, cooperate with the law enforcement officers, but at the first chance ask to speak with a Colorado criminal defense attorney.

Source: The Gazette, "Traffic fatalities up slightly in 2011, myriad factors contributed," Jakob Rodgers, Feb. 10, 2012.