Urgent Update: Distracted Driving Crashes Spike in Durango
UPDATE: Distracted driving has surged in Durango, prompting urgent calls for law enforcement action. A recent incident on Monday involved a pickup truck colliding with a Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad locomotive, with the driver admitting to being distracted at the time.
Despite Colorado’s hands-free driving law taking effect on January 1, 2023, local drivers appear to be more distracted than ever. The law prohibits all cellphone use while driving, including texting, holding phones, and using speakerphone. Yet, authorities reveal that enforcement remains limited.
The Durango Police Department (DPD) has issued only four citations for hands-free violations this year, according to a department spokesperson. Alarmingly, three of these citations were linked to crashes caused by careless driving.
“Distracted driving, even for a moment, can change lives forever,” stated McKenzie Perdue of the DPD.
Currently, the hands-free law is classified as a secondary offense in Colorado, meaning officers cannot stop drivers solely for using their phones. Instead, a primary offense, such as speeding, must also be observed for a stop to occur.
On a broader scale, the Colorado State Patrol has reported issuing 498 citations for hands-free law violations across the state. Trooper Gabriel Moltrer emphasized, “Law enforcement can pull over drivers if an officer witnesses an individual driving carelessly or imprudently while holding a device.”
To avoid a $75 fine and the potential for license suspension points, drivers are urged to use hands-free accessories like Bluetooth headsets and dashboard mounts. The law does not apply to those reporting emergencies, highlighting the community’s safety priority.
As authorities continue to raise awareness, the question remains: will enforcement increase in Durango? Residents are encouraged to prioritize safety by keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. The consequences of distracted driving are dire, with potential for tragic accidents looming.
Stay informed about ongoing traffic safety efforts and developments in Durango. Your vigilance can help save lives.
