(COLO) – Hitting the gas instead of the brake when the traffic lights change, slow rolling through a stop sign, or completely disregarding traffic control devices is a dangerous and potentially deadly decision. Last year, Colorado State Troopers issued 5,590 citations to motorists disregarding or failing to obey traffic control devices such as stop signs, traffic lights, and flashing red/yellow signal lights. This is a 33.9% increase over 2024 (4,174).
“Ignoring traffic control devices is the decision to break a rule at everyone else’s expense,” stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Intersections are inherently dangerous places. Don't expect a warning if we see you make a reckless choice.”
Looking closer at the 5,590 citations issued by troopers, 4,372 were for failing to obey a traffic control signal or device, while 1,218 were for disregarding or failing to stop at a stop sign. According to Colorado State Patrol crash data, in 2025, Troopers responded to 587 crashes involving an at-fault driver who disregarded a traffic control device or stop sign.
As the disregard for traffic devices appears to be accelerating across Colorado communities, it is helpful to break down the severity of these crashes. In 2025, the majority (70%) of these crashes were property damage only. The remaining 30% caused serious injury (185) or death (12 fatalities).
“If you are tempted to ignore a traffic signal to save time, ask yourself if you can live with the consequence of harming your passenger or the pedestrian you failed to see,” stated Col. Packard. “Traffic violence can stem from poor split-second decisions. As a driver, it is your responsibility to place safety over your convenience. That means following the rules designed to keep all road users safe.”
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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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.