(COLO) – Even the most cautious driver can get into a crash when faced with unsafe road conditions. Colorado State Troopers responded to 11,745 crashes last winter season (Nov 2024 – March 2025), with the impacts ranging from property damage to death. Troopers want drivers to stay alert and plan when their need to go out coincides with inclement weather of all types (snow, ice, fog, high winds, and heavy rain).
“Drivers with almost any level of experience know that weather can play an important factor in stress and length of the drive,” explained Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “This is a case when knowledge truly can be power. Drivers can give themselves more time and make better choices about their route and how they drive.
Looking at four years (2021-2024) of crashes investigated by the Colorado State Patrol where road condition was noted (23,577 crashes), troopers found that 47.69% occurred in winter (Dec – Feb), 23.82% in spring (March- May), 18.17% in Autumn (Sept – November), and finally 10.32% in summer. (June – Aug). As anticipated, icy conditions were the most challenging road conditions, resulting in the highest number of crashes, followed by wet roads and then snow.
Road conditions can impact factors such as reduced traction, increased stopping distances, and challenges with control, including abrupt movements (steering, braking, and acceleration). Reducing speed and maintaining a greater distance between vehicles can give drivers more time to avoid a crash.
“Similar to road conditions, weather plays a role in crashes,” stated Col. Packard. “Road conditions can quickly change during weather events. Plus, visibility can be impeded, and traffic flow can become congested.
Referring to the Colorado State Patrol's crash data (2021-2024), troopers reviewed over 110,000 crashes that included information on weather conditions. Snow, freezing rain, and foggy conditions all had higher crash rates than other seasonal weather conditions.
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.