Colorado Drivers Among Safest in U.S., Driving Safety Gains Impact Auto Insurance

Recent data from LendingTree ranks Colorado drivers as the third-safest in the U.S., with 23.7 crash-related claims per 1,000 drivers, reflecting significant improvements in road safety. The state also reports one of the lowest driving under the influence (DUI) rates, at 0.7 DUIs per 1,000 drivers, including both alcohol and cannabis-related offenses. These statistics signal Colorado's ongoing efforts to enhance traffic safety and reduce related insurance claims. Supporting this positive trend, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) reported a 5% decrease in traffic fatalities for 2024 compared to 2023 in a January 2025 report. Additionally, statewide surveys indicate continued behavioral risks such as speeding and distracted driving, with 36% of surveyed drivers admitting to frequently speeding and over 30% engaging in phone use while driving. Notably, 21% of respondents acknowledged driving within two hours of consuming alcohol, cannabis, or impairing prescription drugs, underscoring areas for further safety interventions. Despite these challenges, the overall year-to-date traffic fatalities decreased by 11% compared to August 2024, reflecting the impact of targeted enforcement and educational campaigns. CDOT emphasizes these findings provide critical insights for refining traffic safety strategies, while Governor Jared Polis has introduced initiatives including new speed enforcement cameras and sobriety checkpoints designed to curb risky behaviors and potentially lower auto insurance costs. For insurers and market analysts, these improvements translate into a decreased accident frequency, which can alleviate some underwriting risks and support more competitive auto insurance premiums in Colorado. Continued monitoring of driver behavior trends and regulatory interventions will be key to sustaining and enhancing these gains in vehicle safety and insurance market stability.