STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO-May 24, 2023-As spring heads toward summer and temperatures start rising, the Steamboat Springs Police Department ISSPD) will be turning up the heat on traffic enforcement with a zero-tolerance campaign
“For some reason, many folks believe that stop signs with white trim are optional,” said Police Chief Mark Beckett. “We’ve seen driving behaviors in our mountain town take a severe turn with flagrant disregard by some drivers. During this program, our goal is to bring awareness to the dangers of speeding, red light running, and generally poor driving.”
Starting Memorial weekend and running the entire summer through Labor Day, Operation Rush Hour will involve police officers and vehicles (marked and unmarked) dedicated to zero tolerance enforcement in hot spots across the city.
These officers will be targeting aggressive driving, speeding, not stopping at stop signs, running red lights, and other unsafe behaviors.
During the campaign, SSPD will also be working to educate the community about the importance of safe driving habits including wearing seat belts, not drinking & driving, and avoiding distracted driving.
“Everyone should drive safely every time they get behind the wheel,” stressed Beckett. “We shouldn’t have to warn folks that we’re taking a hard line on enforcement but consider yourself forewarned. If you’re pulled over for a traffic offense, you’ll be driving away with a ticket.”
In the first four months of 2023, officers have issued 290 tickets and 217 warnings for traffic violations, responded to 199 non-injury accidents and 3 collisions with injuries. 32 arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs were also made during early 2023.
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Contact
Mark Beckett, Police Chief, 970.879.4344 or email
Rich Brown, Police Commander, 970.879.4344 or email
Michael Lane, Communications Manager, 970.871.8220 or email