WATCH: Colorado State Patrol warns drivers risks of cellphone use, distracted driving

STATEWIDE, Colo. (KRDO) -- The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) is warning drivers about the dangers of distracted driving as they saw over 3,500 crashes caused primarily by distracted driving in 2025.

CSP says it investigated 3,781 crashes in 2025, most caused by distracted driving. On top of that, CSP says sometimes distractions can play a role in crashes that are attributed to other causes, like lane violations, speeding, following too close and failing to yield.

According to officials, at 50 mph, a car travels over 70 feet. That becomes 110 feet per second when a car is going 75 mph. When drivers are looking at their phones, CSP says they stop taking in the visual cues around them, leading to dangerous driving.

CSP shared videos of simulated accidents that could happen if drivers are on their cellphones while driving.

Officials also released dashcam footage of a driver from a traffic stop on Aug. 7 who was weaving outside of their lane, following too close and speeding. CSP says a sergeant activated their lights and sirens, but the car kept driving for a couple of miles.

While the patrol car is behind the car, officials say the driver pulled out his phone. He eventually pulled over and was fined for using a cellphone while driving, among other things.

CSP says a first offense for cellphone use while driving will cost a driver $89. It goes up to $160 for a second offense in 24 months and $260 for a third.

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