(COLO) – Along with tailgating, excessive speeding, and running red lights, drivers who fail to legally pass create a hazard for themselves and other roadway users. Whether overtaking another vehicle in a marked no-passing zone or failing to leave a proper distance between vehicles, serious crashes can and do occur from unsafe passing.
Over the last five years, Colorado State Troopers have averaged investigating 23 crashes each year resulting from unsafe passing that caused injuries or death. However, in 2025, troopers saw a slight bump up and investigated 26.
“When a driver allows frustration or impatience to determine their actions, troopers frequently see an uptick in aggressive and dangerous maneuvers,” stated Chief Matthew C. Packard, Colorado State Patrol. “Weaving in and out of traffic or taking a chance to pass when it is clearly marked not to do that is mind-blowing. What could possibly be that important to roll the dice with your life? And, chances are, you will take an innocent person with you if you collide with another vehicle.”
While there are many behaviors that indicate aggressive driving or a road rage situation, some examples of improper passing include:
- Overtaking a no-passing zone.
- Passing on a blind curve.
- Cutting off another vehicle after passing.
- Passing when oncoming traffic is too close.
Looking at five years of Colorado State Patrol crash data on unsafe passing, the most deadly and dangerous (injury-causing) crashes occur between noon and 6 p.m., with the peak hour being 3 p.m.
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 celebrates positive driving behaviors and encourages all of us 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.