Latest news with #GabrielMoltrer
CBS News
28-07-2025
- CBS News
Colorado State Patrol shares tips on how to avoid hitting a wrong-way driver
Colorado State Patrol troopers are bringing awareness to a dangerous trend they are starting to see more of: wrong-way drivers on Colorado highways. The most recent wrong-way driving incident was reported Sunday night in downtown Denver. A driver was going the wrong way on Park Avenue and Larimer, both one-way streets. The second report was on July 21. This wrong-way crash killed a couple on Highway 285 in Morrison. Troopers say this crash is still under investigation. Boulder Police is also bringing awareness to this problem by sharing a wrong-way driver video on social media. Police say the driver was on the wrong side of Highway 36 on May 25 around 5:10 a.m. The driver went at speeds up to 110 mph, and several cars had to swerve to avoid a head-on collision. Boulder police say that because of their quick response, no one was hurt. This driver was arrested and now faces charges of DUI, drug possession, and multiple traffic violations. Troopers with CSP say there are ways to avoid getting hit by a wrong-way driver. First, get off the highway or road immediately. Pull into a shoulder or safe area. Make sure you are out of the lane they are traveling in. Troopers say it does not matter where you are; a wrong-way driver hitting you head-on is always dangerous. "With drivers going the wrong direction, even if it's the case of them not knowing the area and accidentally making the wrong turn, they could hit a pedestrian using the crosswalks," Colorado State Trooper Gabriel Moltrer said. There could be other vehicles that will not know that you were coming and could cause a head-on collision." Usually, the way to report any incident is with license plate information. This could be tricky with a wrong-way driver. Troopers say you should call 911 and let them know the exact location. Use a mile marker and direction of travel if it's a highway. Use local attractions or other landmarks if you're in a city.
CBS News
09-06-2025
- Automotive
- CBS News
Colorado motorcyclists at fault for over 500 crashes in 2024, 162 died, according to CSP
Colorado State Patrol says there are still too many crashes across the state, and the most common involves the motorcycle community. Troopers say motorcyclists were at fault for 669 crashes last year, a 52% increase compared to 2023. Among these crashes, 162 people lost their lives statewide. Troopers say most of these crashes occur between 2 and 4 p.m. on Saturdays and the most common areas are on Interstates 25 and 70. Speeding continues to be the number one problem, according to CSP. This is followed by motorcyclists not being attentive on the roads, lacking experience, and driving under the influence. A motorcyclist drives down the highway on June 23, 2020 outside of Redstone, Colorado. RJ Sangosti/The Denver Post via Getty Images Lane splitting is another big reason for crashes. This is when a motorcyclist uses the highway lanes to drive between cars, which is illegal and dangerous, CSP says. "By going through those vehicles at highway speeds, you are causing, whether it be small or big, issues," Colorado State Patrol Trooper Gabriel Moltrer said. "A driver may not see you, so by coming close to that vehicle, you may cause them to panic, they could strike you or even somebody else." Troopers say with each ride, always wear your helmet, boots, jackets, and gloves. In case of a crash, these are the only protections you have for your head and body. They could save your life.
CBS News
27-05-2025
- General
- CBS News
Crashes during 100 deadliest days of summer blamed for 71 deaths in Colorado last year
The time period between Memorial Day and Labor Day marks the 100 deadliest days of summer in Colorado, according to law enforcement. This is where law enforcement all across Colorado sees and responds to the deadliest crashes, many involving people driving under the influence. In 2024, law enforcement across Colorado responded to 71 fatal crashes. This is not limited to alcohol; it also includes driving under the influence of THC and over-the-counter medications. RAY LEGO / Getty Images Colorado State Patrol troopers say that while patrolling, they will be looking out for drivers who are breaking driving laws. These include weaving in and out of traffic, driving too slowly or too fast, and road rage. Troopers say crashes are 100% preventable, and not only do these dangerous actions put others at risk, but their own troopers who respond. Troopers say this is especially important to not only report these drivers, but also move over yourself if you spot an officer responding. "Not only can it save the officers' life and the life of the person they stopped, but it could also save your life along with people in your vehicle," said Colorado State Trooper Gabriel Moltrer. "If you strike one of those other vehicles, you could cause a great amount of damage, and all that force will be applied to the occupants." Troopers say this is why it is important to have a designated driver or use rideshare and public transportation. Take away your friend or family member's keys if you notice
Yahoo
25-05-2025
- Yahoo
‘We're removing those people from the road': CSP to increase DUI enforcement ahead of deadliest days of summer
GOLDEN, Colo. (KDVR) — Memorial Day to Labor Day, a stretch most people are celebrating summer. But for the Colorado State Patrol, it is better known as the 100 deadliest days of summer. There were 71 deadly crashes in that stretch in 2024. FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox 'Our number one priority is to make sure the rest of the motoring public is safe and we're keeping people safe,' Colorado State Patrol Trooper Gabriel Moltrer said. That is why you will see law enforcement out in full force starting this weekend. Last year, law enforcement made 718 DUI arrests over the Memorial weekend. If arrested, you could be facing a major bill. Last year, CSP saw a 117% increase in DUI arrests on Memorial Day alone compared to 2023. 'You can lose your license you can face jail time and court cost and fines can exceed over $13,000,' Moltrer said. During the increased enforcement period in the spring, there were 524 arrests made across Colorado. 'If you're being unsafe by consuming any intoxicants throughout this weekend and then choosing to drive, we're removing those people from the road,' Moltrer said. That extra DUI enforcement began on Thursday and runs through Wednesday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
CBS News
19-05-2025
- Automotive
- CBS News
In Colorado, drivers ages 16 to 21 at fault for almost 3,600 crashes in 2024
The state of Colorado is continuing to see a dangerous trend: our state's youngest drivers are causing thousands of crashes every year. According to the Colorado State Patrol, in 2024, drivers ages 16 to 21 caused 3,577 crashes on Colorado roadways. In May 2024, this age group was at fault for 355 crashes. Troopers say most of these crashes share the same thing in common: distracted driving. It involves being on their cell phones. Many are watching TikTok or YouTube videos while in traffic. Troopers say your cell phone should never be out while you are driving. Kentaroo Tryman Troopers recommend some easy tips to stop these trends. Make a playlist before heading to your destination to avoid constantly looking at your phone. Put in your GPS before heading out the door. Always have your seat belt on; this can save your life in a crash. Troopers say May has the highest number of crashes due to kids celebrating prom, graduation, summer and college kids returning home. This is the best time for parents to discuss safe driving practices with their kids. The biggest thing is making sure they never take their eyes off the road. "Keeping your eyes on the road is the main important job that you have as a driver," said Colorado State Trooper Gabriel Moltrer. "By taking it off for one or two seconds, even though it doesn't seem like a long amount of time, especially if you were on the interstate going those highway speeds, in those few seconds, you could travel hundreds of feet." As a reminder, having your phone in your hand while driving is illegal in Colorado. If you are caught, you will receive a $75 fine and two points added to your license.
