Colorado highway officials record 43% spike in lane violation crashes due to driver fatigue in 2024 

Car crashes caused by lane violations as a result of driver fatigue spiked in Colorado this past year, with 56 fatal and non-fatal combines incidents in 2024 compared to 39 in 2023, according to Colorado State Patrol. 

That represents a 43% increase in crashes caused by drivers who were drowsy or asleep at the wheel. Such incidents have only increased in recent years, with the number of crashes up 107% from 2020. 

Drowsy driving is similar to driving under the influence of alcohol and can impact reaction times and ability to stay focused on the road, said state patrol in a news release, citing information from the National Sleep Foundation.

Drowsy drivers may find themselves weaving back and forth between lanes and unable to maintain the right speed and appropriate distance from other vehicles. Drivers may also be unable to react in time to avoid an obstacle.

“Shift workers and commercial drivers are at extreme risk, but anyone who struggles with getting enough and regular sleep can be impacted,” said Colorado State Patrol Chief Col. Matthew C. Packard, in a statement. 

State patrol urges drivers who may be experiencing signs of drowsiness to pull over for a 20-minute nap in a safe place. 

Signs of drowsiness can include heavy eyelids or frequent blinking, frequent yawning, daydreaming and trouble focusing, drifting back and forth between lanes, poor recall of the last few miles, missing signs or exits, irritability, and aggressiveness — such as tailgating.

As of Wednesday, Colorado law also prohibits the use of a phone while driving unless it is through a hands-free accessory. Drivers can now be fined $75 and face two license suspension points for their first offense. Repeat offenders could face higher fines and more points on their license.