As Distracted Driving Awareness Month comes to a close, let’s reflect on how Colorado’s new driver safety laws have impacted serious injuries and fatalities due to car crashes.
On January 1, 2025, Colorado enacted a new “hands free” law, prohibiting drivers from using any mobile electronic device while behind the wheel of a vehicle. In 2024, distracted driving was the second most common reasons for car crashes in Colorado. As of March 31, 2025, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), has issued 94 distracted driving tickets since the law was enacted—a 135% increase compared to this same time in 2024.
Early data shows that this new law has been effective. Cambridge Mobile Telematics, the world’s largest telematics service provider, showed a 3.3% reduction in phone distraction as of February 26, 2025. CMT estimates this has prevented “88 crashes, 49 injuries, and $3.5 million in economic damages” since January 1, 2025. By the end of April 2024, there were already 163 traffic deaths and 944 serious injuries due to a traffic crash. Pedestrian fatalities in Colorado were also at an all-time high in 2024 with 136 deaths, and bicyclists’ deaths were up 33%. From January to April 2025, there have been 98 traffic deaths and 795 serious injuries due to a traffic crash. (Colorado Department of Transportation)
Colorado enacted another traffic safety law on January 1, 2025—the Colorado Child Passenger Safety Law. This law updated booster seat, car seat, and seat belt regulations for children. Motor vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of death for children in the United States. Proper use of car seats, booster seats, and seat belts significantly enhances child safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that child restraints reduce fatalities by 71% for infants and by 54% for toddlers in passenger cars. (Colorado Department of Transportation) While there is not much data yet as to how this law has affected children in crashes, CDOT is hopeful that 2025 will see less child fatalities and injuries due to this law.
However, as summer approaches, traffic crashes rise. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the summer period, particularly from Memorial Day through Labor Day, often referred to as the “100 Deadliest Days,” is one of the most dangerous times on the roads. In 2024, this trend continued, with CDOT reporting 351 fatal crashes between May and September 2024. July was particularly deadly, with 79 fatalities, making it the deadliest month of the year. September followed closely with 84 fatalities, marking it as the second deadliest month.
This increase in fatalities during the summer is due to higher traffic volumes, impaired driving, teen drivers, road trips and fatigue, construction, more pedestrians on the road, and of course, distracted driving. CDOT is hopeful that these new laws will help to lower the fatality spike usually seen in summer.
While the summer months in Colorado offer many opportunities for travel, they also come with heightened risks. By understanding the factors that contribute to increased crashes and adhering to safety guidelines, drivers can help reduce the number of fatalities and make the roads safer for everyone. Remember to remain aware, cautious, ensure you and your passengers are properly restrained, and always drive distraction free.
If you have been injured by a distracted driver, call us for a free consultation at 719-888-9529.
For more information on traffic safety and resources, visit the Colorado Department of Transportation’s official website.
Makenna Paszek
Paralegal
