(COLO) – Since the *CSP (*277) program was implemented in July 1998, Colorado motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians have reported thousands of “real-time” aggressive drivers and suspected DUI drivers. Last year, the Colorado State Patrol’s *CSP calls for aggressive drivers surpassed calls regarding suspected impairment.
In 2024, Colorado State Patrol emergency dispatchers answered 54,956 total *CSP calls with 56% (30,779) related to road rage or aggressive driving. Overall, *CSP calls declined by approximately 2% from 2023 (55,107 total), but the percentage of road rage or aggressive driving calls took a slightly larger percentage of the *CSP calls for the year. In 2023, 54% of the calls were related to road rage or aggressive driving.
“When someone cuts you off, tailgates, or flies by you at the speed of a cheetah, you may be tempted to react. However, anger can escalate quickly and turn violent,” stated Chief Matthew C. Packard, Colorado State Patrol. “Your best response is to keep a level head and your distance. Let the aggressive driver move on, and do not engage.”
While many behaviors indicate aggressive driving or a road rage situation, some of the most notable behaviors include:
- Excessive Speeding
- Tailgating
- Honking in anger
- Making angry gestures
- Passing on the right
- Showing a weapon
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Getting out of the vehicle to confront another driver
If you see these behaviors, you are encouraged to find a safe spot to pull over. Then, contact the Colorado State Patrol by calling *CSP (*277). Be prepared to provide the following information: vehicle description, license plate number, location and direction of travel, driver description, and the driving behavior being demonstrated.
In addition, all emergency calls can be made to 9-1-1.
Troopers are taking a low-tolerance approach to the top fatal crash factors, including lane violations and speeding while launching a three-month campaign called “Stop Speeding.” This campaign wants every Colorado driver to break the myth that speeding is a “victimless crime” and encourages you to drive like a trooper is riding with you.
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ABOUT THE COLORADO STATE PATROL
Since our origin in 1935, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) has focused on preserving human life and protecting property within our communities. Our 1,100 members embody the core values of Honor, Duty, and Respect in their daily jobs. In addition to our expertise in motor vehicle safety on the state’s roadways, the CSP is responsible for the Governor and other dignitaries’ protection, commercial motor vehicle enforcement, hazardous materials, homeland security, communications, investigative services, criminal interdiction, community education, aviation operations, and more.