Colorado State Patrol Warns Stress, Anxiety and Fatigue Can Increase Driving Risks

Description: Colorado State Patrol warns that stress, anxiety and fatigue can affect reaction time, focus and decision-making behind the wheel, increasing crash risks...

Driving Isn't Just Physical — It's Mental

Your emotional state can affect what you do

(COLO) – We talk a lot about the distractions caused by cell phones, navigation tools, and food, but one of the most overlooked driving dangers isn't something you do. It's how you feel. Anxiety, stress, and fatigue can all impact your mental state, which then can alter how you drive.

"As you drive, your brain is constantly processing speed, distance, signals, pedestrians, and weather conditions, often in fractions of a second," stated Colonel Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. "If your attention is tied up in something else, your ability to focus diminishes. This can impact your reaction time and your decision-making."

In a recent State Farm (2025) survey, respondents reported that when they had a full "to-do" list, almost a third became more distracted. Another 17% reported that being upset or stressed also increased the likelihood of dangerous driving behaviors.

"Split-second distractions can cause crashes," explained Colonel Packard. "Each year, troopers respond to dozens of crashes due to drivers drifting or weaving in their lane or making an abrupt action because of an unseen turn, pedestrian, or hazard. Looking away for 2 seconds can double your risk of a crash."

Drivers can increase situational awareness, increase decision-making time, and improve reaction time by staying present while driving. Mindfulness takes some proactive steps when "real life" impacts you, especially if you know that you are anxious, depressed, or going through a stressful time. The first step is to pause before you begin your drive.

• Take some deep breaths, clear your head.
• Think about your route and set navigation, if needed.
• Adjust your seat, vehicle controls, and music.
• Grip the wheel and pay attention to how you are holding it.
• When you are ready to drive, consciously scan the road and check mirrors.
• Watch the road ahead, continuing to scan.

Creating a routine improves your awareness and also allows for a more peaceful driving experience. It's not just about removing distractions; it's about feeling focused and allowing yourself more time to react to the unpredictable hazards that any drive can present.

The Colorado State Patrol is focused on curbing dangerous, avoidable driving behaviors during Distracted Driving Awareness Month and the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer by sharing data and tips to encourage all Colorado drivers to focus on one task: driving. Colorado's Hands Free law went into effect on January 1, 2025. Seconds Matter, drop the distractions.

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