April marks Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a timely reminder that even a quick glance at your phone can have serious consequences. Across Colorado – and especially along high-traffic corridors like I-70 – drivers are being urged to put their phones down and focus fully on the road. 
Colorado’s new hands-free law is already showing early signs of success, with enforcement efforts ramping up and a noticeable drop in cellphone use behind the wheel.
Since the law took effect, the Colorado State Patrol has issued 94 citations to drivers caught using their phones – more than half of all distracted driving tickets issued this year, and a 135% increase over the same period in 2023. The counties with the most citations so far include Jefferson, El Paso, Weld, Douglas and Adams.
But it’s not just about tickets. Data from Cambridge Mobile Telematics shows a 3.3% reduction in cellphone use among Colorado drivers since the law went into effect. That change is estimated to have already prevented 88 crashes and 49 injuries – a strong indication that the law is doing what it was designed to do.
Safe Driving Starts with a Hands-Free Setup
CDOT is encouraging all drivers to prepare by installing hands-free accessories like dashboard mounts, voice-activated controls or Bluetooth systems. These simple changes can help keep your attention where it belongs – on the road.
Penalties for violating the law start with a $75 fine and two license points. First-time offenders can avoid the fine by showing proof of purchasing a hands-free device. Repeat offenses carry higher penalties.
There are exceptions for emergency calls and for certain essential workers, but for most drivers, going hands-free is the best way to stay compliant—and safe.
“The message is simple – always drive distraction-free,” said Col. Matthew C. Packard, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “This new law allows law enforcement to address reckless behaviors and is expected to help reduce distracted-related crashes in our state.”
Let’s all use Distracted Driving Awareness Month as a reason to break the habit, make the switch to hands-free and help make I-70 (and all Colorado roads) safer for everyone.
For more information on the new law and how to comply, visit codot.gov/handsfreeco.