(COLO) – Learning how to navigate new situations, overcome fears, and develop practical skills comes at all stages of life. Winter and poor weather conditions require new or young drivers to adopt a “beginner’s mindset” to help them drive safely and successfully in every Colorado season.
The Colorado State Patrol analyzed four years of winter crash data (2021-2024) and found that age and unfamiliarity with the area increased the crash rate in December, January, and February compared to other months.
“Generally speaking, snow and ice conditions are less forgiving for drivers who make sudden movements behind the wheel,” stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “That means if you slam on your brakes because you haven’t adjusted your distance for icy roads or jerk the wheel to avoid missing a turn, you have a much higher chance of losing control and causing a crash.”
Getting off to a good start as a driver means practicing in all types of weather conditions. New drivers who were fortunate to earn their license without encountering much foul weather should set aside time when the weather turns poorly to practice in an open and safe environment. Parents and caregivers should support their new driver by practicing with them and encouraging the following tips:
Top Tips for Winter Driving
- Clear snow and ice for complete visibility.
- Decrease speed for the conditions.
- Do not use cruise control.
- Increase distance from all vehicles, including snowplows. Let plows go first.
- Avoid sudden braking or acceleration.
- Avoid a false sense of security - 4WD and AWD help with traction, but not with stopping or turning.
- Emphasize giving yourself “extra time” before hitting the road.
If you are an experienced driver, but are visiting a new area for vacation, recreation or daily business needs, build in extra time and make sure your vehicle is winter-ready for the drive. Snow and ice driving aren’t meant for a “hurried” mindset. Be prepared to take things slower and to pack some patience in the event that another motorist fails to adjust their driving and causes a weather-related crash.
The Colorado State Patrol wants residents and visitors to be ‘Winter Ready’ during our cold, snow, and ice season. This campaign aims to educate drivers on the most common behaviors that lead to serious injury and death during the winter months on Colorado roadways.
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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 protection of the Governor and other dignitaries, commercial motor vehicle enforcement, hazardous materials, homeland security, communications, investigative services, criminal interdiction, community education, aviation operations, and more. For additional information, visit us online at Colorado State Patrol or follow us on X, Instagram, YouTube, or Facebook.