CSP reminds travelers to practice safe driving habits

(COLORADO) — As traffic increases on Colorado roadways due to the busy summer travel season, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) is urging drivers to pack their patience and practice safe driving habits.

July is the worst month on record for traffic deaths in the state, with 90 people killed in a single month in 2023, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). Due to that, CSP wants motorists to drive safely, because troopers will be ticketing to ensure drivers respect the rules of the road.

Here are a few tips to avoid a citation:

• Follow the posted speed limit.
  • If conditions warrant it, drive a safe speed below the limit. Some considerations that may determine the set speed limit are weather, wildfire, heavy traffic, road damage, sun glare, and any activity on the right shoulder including police activity to a citizen changing a tire.
• Put down all distractions.
  • Avoid eating meals in the driver’s seat.
  • Let a passenger be the DJ
• If you encounter an incident with road rage, keep your cool.
  • Distance yourself from that driver, and have a passenger contact CSP to report the driver.
  • Do not attempt to follow the driver.
• Make sure everyone is buckled up.
• Keep all items like coolers and handbags away.
  • In the case of an emergency, any unsecured item can become dangerous to the occupants of your vehicle.
• Never use any impairing substance before or while driving.

Troopers are on high alert seat belts violations. Warnings will not be issued for safety restraint violations due to the “Buckle Like a Boss” campaign, which is designed to increase Colorado’s voluntary seatbelt compliance from 88% in 2023 to meet the national average of 92%.

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