Going to the grocery store is something that everyone does. It’s not uncommon to stop by on your way home after work or any other time during the week when you remember you need just one more item that you forgot to pick up the last time you were out.
In the past, however, if you wanted to also purchase full-strength alcohol, you had to go to a separate liquor store. This mandated separation of food and alcohol meant that shopping trips may have taken a bit longer than you would have liked, since two stops mean double the time parking, waiting in line and paying for your purchases. This, however, was just a hassle that everyone dealt with as a result of living in Colorado and various other states in the country. But for Colorado, the rules are changing.
New Law Means Easier Access to Alcohol
This summer, a new law went into effect that has changed the name of the game for everyone who has ever made two separate trips for groceries and alcohol. The new bill allows grocery store owners to acquire liquor licenses so they can sell alcohol in their stores. The phase-in will take place over a 20-year period.
This is possibly the biggest change to liquor laws in Colorado since Prohibition. And, as with any big change, it has not come without heated debate. While small liquor store owners worry that the changes may drive them out of business, the large grocery stores worry that the phase-in is too slow.
As a Denver accident law firm, however, our biggest concern is the way in which this new law may impact drivers. If drivers can more easily access alcohol, will they take advantage of the ease of access by purchasing more alcohol? And if they do end up purchasing alcohol more frequently, will there be an impact on the number of drunk driving-related accidents and arrests?
As of right now, it is too soon to say whether or not we will see any correlation between the new law and the drunk driving situation across the state. However, we will be monitoring the trends over the next few months.
Always Drink Responsibly
New laws or not, it is always good to remember the responsibility you have when you get behind the wheel of an automobile. Despite the temptation of drinking and driving, we can reassure you that the reality is never as great as you might have imagined.
That said, we also understand that sometimes life takes a turn in a direction you least expect. If you’ve found yourself in a situation that has led to a DUI charge and perhaps a conviction, you won’t want to face the legal system alone. Levine Law is here to help.
Our firm is ready and willing to help you. When you contact us, we’ll set up an initial consultation, listen to your story, and help you take the next best step so that you won’t have to carry the weight of your decisions around for any longer than necessary.
