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DENVER — Over 600 people have been killed on Colorado roadways in the past year, making 2018 one of the deadliest years in decades.

In an effort to prevent impaired driving heading into the new year, RTD will provide free rides in the Denver metro area.

The rides will be available on all trains and buses starting at 7 p.m. New Year’s Eve.

The free services, which also include Access-a-Ride and SkyRide, conclude at the end of the service day Jan. 1.

“We are pleased to be able to offer that, we are pleased to be able to serve as peoples’ designated driver and to introduce them to our system if they’re not familiar,” RTD spokesperson Laurie Huff said, noting the campaign is in its eleventh year.

As for the startling number of deaths on roads across the state, Colorado State Patrol Chief Matthew Packard says the statistics are caused by inattentive or impaired driving and law enforcement alone can’t solve the tragic problem.

“This is an epidemic that has to stop right now. And that responsibility lies in my hands and your hands. Together, we are the only solution to this. We have to be better, Colorado.”

Law enforcement will take the time to crack down on intoxicated drivers during the annual ‘Heat Is On’ campaign, which stretches from Friday through New Years Day.

If you plan on drinking to ring in the New Year, be sure to avoid bicycles and scooters parked throughout the city, as driving drunk on one of those can still get you slapped with a DUI and a hefty fine.

For more information regarding routes and schedules during the annual “Freeze the Keys on New Years Eve” campaign,  check RTD’s website.