New data shows Colorado’s hands-free law reduced distracted driving by 4.7 percent statewide from 2024 to 2025, preventing an estimated 600 crashes, more than 400 injuries, and six fatalities.

A one-year analysis by Cambridge Mobile Telematics used data from millions of driving trips across Colorado. Smartphone app data and cellphone sensor readings showed distracted driving dropped 8.3 percent in the first month after the law took effect.

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Colorado State Patrol data reinforces the trend. Troopers investigated 3,778 crashes involving inattentive drivers in 2025 — a nearly 9 percent decrease from 2024. Enforcement also increased sharply: troopers issued 216 percent more citations for handheld device use in 2025 than the year before.

“The increase in citations shows that troopers are actively enforcing Colorado’s hands-free law and holding distracted drivers accountable,” said Colonel Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “But enforcement alone isn’t the goal — we want drivers to change their behavior. When drivers keep their hands off their cellphones and their eyes on the road, everyone is safer.”

The State Patrol continues to respond to serious crashes across the state: earlier this year, troopers investigated seven fatal crashes in a single weekend, illustrating the ongoing stakes of road safety in Colorado.

Colorado’s hands-free law prohibits drivers from holding or handling a cellphone or other mobile device while driving, stopped in traffic, or at a stoplight. Drivers must use a hands-free accessory to make calls or send messages. Exemptions apply to individuals reporting emergencies, utility workers, code enforcement officers, animal protection officers, first responders, and individuals in parked vehicles.

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As Distracted Driving Awareness Month begins April 1, the Colorado Department of Transportation is encouraging drivers to use hands-free accessories such as dashboard mounts, Bluetooth systems, or built-in vehicle technology such as Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to stay compliant with the law and keep their focus on the road.

“Colorado’s hands-free law is helping change habits, but it only works if drivers commit to it,” said CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew. “When you’re behind the wheel, nothing on your phone is more important than getting everyone home safely.”

Distracted driving has been the third leading contributing factor in Colorado traffic crashes. Experts note the figure is likely underreported, as officers must rely on drivers or witnesses to acknowledge distraction.

Penalties for violating the hands-free law begin with a $75 fine and two license suspension points for a first offense. First-time violators may have the charge dismissed by providing proof of purchasing a hands-free accessory. Repeat offenders face higher fines and additional license suspension points.

Colorado has steadily increased the cost of distracted driving over the years. In 2017, the state enacted new penalties for distracted driving, setting the stage for the stronger enforcement seen today.

For more information on the hands-free law, visit codot.gov/handsfreeco.