El Paso County ranked highest in deadly crashes from impaired drivers in 2021
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- More than 1,750 fatal and injury vehicle crashes have been caused due to impaired drivers within the last three years, according to Colorado State Patrol.
“Last year troopers investigated 14 fatal car crashes and an additional 42 with serious injuries during the month of July that were caused by impaired drivers. We are imploring drivers who have taken the risk of taking substances and driving in the past to change their behavior,” stated Chief Matthew C. Packard, Colorado State Patrol. “Driving intoxicated is literally rolling the dice with your license, your freedom, and your life.”
According to the data released by state patrol, at-fault impaired drivers who are involved in a crash were wearing a seat belt.
“When you pause to consider that the majority of impaired drivers involved in a serious injury or fatal crash make the choice to wear a seat belt for their own personal protection but don’t make a choice to plan a sober ride for the protection of others, you begin to appreciate the selfishness of this behavior,” remarked Chief Packard.
The Colorado Department of Transportation reported a 44% increase in fatalities that involve an impaired driver since 2019.
Though impaired driving remains a serious concern in Colorado, state patrol investigated alcohol and drunk driving in fatal and injury crashes.
The following five counties in Colorado were reported to be the highest in alcohol and drugged driving in fatal and injury crashes in 2021:
- Jefferson County
- Weld County
- Adams County
- Larimer County
- El Paso County
State Patrol has introduced a yearlong "Stay in Your Lane" campaign in an effort to remind people to control their lane position based on the current driving condition. The campaign also brings attention to avoidable behaviors that give lane violations: driving distracted, driving aggressively, or driving while impaired.
You can learn more about the "Stay in Your Lane" campaign here.
