Traffic Safety

The goal of all traffic enforcement activity is to achieve voluntary compliance with the traffic laws and to eliminate traffic crashes. To help educate our citizens about traffic safety, the Police Department has provided the following safety tips.

Obeying the Speed Limit

Speed limits are based on specific engineering concerns, including visibility, road characteristics, and the surrounding environment (business, retail, school zone, industrial, highway, etc.). Obeying speed limits is an important part of safe driving.

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Following Too Closely

Following too closely is one of the most frequent causes of motor vehicle crashes. The ability to safely avoid a hazard is sharply reduced when following too closely. Give yourself more reaction time by increasing the distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs continues to be a significant issue across the country. Have a designated driver and avoid the horrible consequences of a DUI. Lives are at stake, including those of you and your family. Even when injuries are not involved, jail time, fines, loss of driving privileges, attorney fees, and insurance costs are considerable.

Obeying Red Lights & Stop Signs

Failure to obey traffic control devices is a real safety hazard. Broadside crashes are extremely dangerous, all too often resulting in serious injury or even death. Aside from the obvious safety issues, failing to stop inconveniences other motorists who have the lawful right-of-way, increasing their frustration and impatience.

Intersection Safety

Take an extra few seconds before proceeding into an intersection, even if you have the right-of-way or green light, to scan for any vehicles that may not be paying attention to the traffic control device or flow of traffic.

Making a Left Turn

Do not enter an intersection to wait to make a left-hand turn unless you are sure you will have an opening to proceed and can clear the intersection before the light turns red.

Wear Your Seat Belt

Research has repeatedly demonstrated the benefits of wearing seat belts. Injury severity is significantly reduced and fatalities can be avoided through this simple habit. Seat belts are mandatory for all front seat passengers, and seat belts or child safety seats are mandatory for all children through the age of 16.

Child Safety & Booster Seats

Child safety and booster seats are mandatory for children up to 6 years of age. For child seat regulations, visit the Car Seats Colorado website.

Additional Information

Additional tips to help you drive more safely are available in our Traffic Enforcement brochure (PDF).