(COLO) – School zones and construction zones have posted lower speed limits, traffic calming devices, and several high-visibility warning devices for good reasons. Kids' and roadside workers' lives are at risk. Yet, when looking at last year’s data from the Colorado State Patrol, troopers alone cited 1,237 people for speeding in construction or school zones, a 12% increase over 2022 (1102 citations).
“Slow Down! Too many Colorado drivers are failing roadside workers and kids,” stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “No matter the day of week or time, motorists should assume people could be present in these low-speed zones and follow the law because people’s lives literally depend on you.”
Speeding is a common type of aggressive driving, and it can happen on neighborhood streets as well as busy four-lane highways.
According to Colorado State Patrol data, 48 of Colorado’s 64 counties had at least one instance of a driver receiving a citation in either a work zone or school zone. The top five counties with the most speeding citations issued by Colorado State Troopers in these low-speed zones in 2023 were:
- El Paso County (222)
- Larimer County (131)
- Adams County (127)
- Mesa County (111)
- Garfield County (88)
Pedestrians of all ages must also take precautions to ensure their safety.
- Cross in designated areas. If designated crosswalks or traffic control personnel are available, this is where pedestrians should cross the road.
- Make eye contact. Before crossing a street, try to establish eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you before proceeding.
- Stay Alert. Put away distractions such as headphones and smartphones. Focus on your surroundings and be aware of potential hazards.
- Stay patient. School zones and construction zones can be congested and noisy. Wait for your turn to cross safely and follow signage and warning devices.
Remember, the key to pedestrian safety in construction and school zones is vigilance, following the rules and guidelines, and always staying alert to your surroundings.
Troopers remind drivers to put away distractions and look for mobile and permanent signs that prompt them to slow down or follow shifting lane patterns. Be a responsible driver by practicing patience behind the wheel and always leaving extra space between your vehicle and other motorists, equipment, or people.
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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.