(COLO) – Over a four-year period, from 2020 through 2023, Colorado State Patrol troopers have investigated over 2,500 fatal and injury crashes determined to be caused by impaired drivers. Year after year, numbers expand during warmer months, with the top month for impaired crashes being July.
“Last year, troopers investigated 11 fatal car crashes and an additional 59 with serious injuries during the month of July that were caused by impaired drivers. We are imploring drivers who have taken the risk of driving intoxicated in the past to change their behavior,” stated Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Driving impaired is rolling the dice with your license, your freedom and your life.”
By looking at crash data statistics over the last four years, the Colorado State Patrol has discovered that the majority of at-fault impaired drivers involved in a crash they investigated were wearing their seat belts (61%).
“Buckling up becomes a habit, and so should planning for a sober driver,” remarked Chief Packard. “When you pause to consider that the majority of impaired drivers involved in a serious injury or fatal crash make the choice to wear a seatbelt for their own personal protection but don’t make a choice to plan a sober ride for the protection of others, you begin to appreciate the selfishness of this behavior.”
While impaired driving is a serious concern in every community, alcohol and drugged driving fatal and injury crashes investigated by Colorado State Patrol were the highest in the following five counties in 2023:
- Adams
- El Paso
- Weld
- Jefferson
- Larimer
Troopers continue to take a low-tolerance approach to the top fatal crash factors, including lane violations, impaired driving and speeding while launching a yearlong campaign called “Drive Safe.” This campaign reminds people to reflect on everything they love and value and plan a sober ride when planning to celebrate.
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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.