.png)
Routine Driving Increases Distraction Risk, Colorado State Patrol Warns
Description: Routine driving can lead to dangerous distractions, according to Colorado State Patrol data. Most distracted-driving crashes occur during weekday rush hours on high-traffic roads like l-25 and I-70. Learn how to stay alert and reduce risk. Read the full Press release from Colorado State Patrol Public Affairs Office...
Routine Puts You at Risk for Distraction
Troopers see distracted driving crashes most often during rush hours
(COLO) – Complacent driving, born from routine and familiarity, can lead drivers to be tempted into a variety of distractions behind the wheel. Taking a familiar, repetitive route to work, school, or other activities can lead motorists to reduce their attention, miss potential hazards, and reduce their reaction time.
Looking at Colorado State Patrol crash data over a five-year period (2021-2025), the top roadways with the most distracted-driving crashes were also the ones with the highest traffic volume.
1. I-25 (2,910)
2. I-70 (994)
3. I-76 (645)
4. H-470 (645)
5. H-50 (522)
These same crashes occurred most often Monday through Friday, indicating a relationship with everyday commuting. In addition, the morning (7 – 9 a.m.) and evening (3 – 6 p.m.) commutes had the highest incidence of inattentive driving crashes.
“Being too comfortable behind the wheel can cause a driver to go on an ‘autopilot’ state, risking their safety and everyone else who shares the road,” stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Break the monotony of your routine by listening to different music or podcasts, actively scanning the road, and even varying your route.”
Seasoned drivers and those driving the same route should proactively combat complacency. When complacency shows up, this is when drivers feel they can send a quick text, eat a burger, and groom themselves.
The Colorado State Patrol is focused on curbing dangerous, avoidable driving behaviors during Distracted Driving Awareness Month and the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer by sharing data and tips to encourage all Colorado drivers to focus on one task: driving. Colorado’s Hands Free law went into effect on January 1, 2025. Seconds Matter, drop the distractions.
