(COLO) – It’s that time of day when traffic volume peaks, as grumpy and groggy drivers head off on their commute to work. The morning rush hour, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., can be filled with challenges, including sun glare, distractions, heavy traffic and the unexpected traffic snarl.
Looking at six years of data (2020-2025) from crashes investigated by Colorado State troopers, we found that the morning rush hour was the peak time of day for speeding-caused crashes. The next most common time was the “off hour” immediately after the morning rush hour (9 – 10 a.m.).
“The psychology behind this trend isn’t fully known, but we can make some guesses based on statements made by the people we’ve met during morning speed crashes. Often these drivers are rushing to work, many of them feeling thrown off schedule by kids, getting themselves ready, traffic volume or weather,” stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol.
A secondary factor in many of these speed-related crashes is distraction. Whether the mental load of planning the day is impairing the driver’s focus or the driver is eating breakfast on the go, this lack of attention while speeding increases the risk on the road.
Strategies to Avoid a Rush Hour Crash
- Plan Ahead – extra time lets you start your day calmly. You can even give yourself an additional 10–15 minutes to drive within the speed limit on your commute, or below it if weather or traffic conditions require it.
- Limit Distractions – removing distractions by setting your navigation and music before you start. Eat breakfast before you drive or keep it until you reach your workplace. Give your full attention to the road and your speed.
- Know Your Route – do you know the speed limit on your daily commute? Familiarize yourself with the changes in speed limit, reduced speed zones, construction and more.
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 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.