(COLO) – School zones and construction zones have lower speed limits, traffic calming devices and several high-visibility warning devices for drivers for good reason. Kids' and roadside workers' lives are at risk. Yet, when looking at data from the Colorado State Patrol in 2024, troopers alone cited almost 1,220 people for speeding in construction or school zones.
“Kids, neighbors and road workers count on all of us to care about other humans when they enter these spaces. Currently, too many motorists are failing these vulnerable populations,” stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “A driver should never assume people will not be present in these low-speed zones, no matter the day of the week or time of day. Follow the law because people’s lives depend on you.”
Speeding is a common type of aggressive driving that can happen on neighborhood streets and busy four-lane highways.
“Speeding can be habit forming, but it doesn’t make it excusable,” explains Col. Packard. “When you don’t drive cautiously and lawfully in school and work zones, you display extreme indifference to your neighbors and community.”
According to Colorado State Patrol data, 49 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 2024 were:
- El Paso County (327) an increase over 2023 (222 citations)
- Adams County (104)
- Eagle County (77)
- Boulder County (56)
- Park County (56)
Troopers ask you to follow Colorado’s Hands-Free law and put away distractions. Drivers should look for mobile and permanent signs that prompt them to slow down or follow shifting lane patterns. Keep your cool by practicing your patience, and always leave extra space between your vehicle and other motorists, equipment, or people.
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.