(COLORADO) — Beginning on Monday, Sept. 23, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) along with various local law enforcement agencies will target low-speed zones and highways looking for drivers who place pedestrians and other drivers in harm's way. The statewide surge enforcement day is in recognition of CSP's 89th birthday. CSP said it was formed with the primary duty to promote safety, protect human life, and preserve the roadways of Colorado through intelligent, courteous, and strict enforcement. CSP said data from 2023 showed an increase in speeding citations in construction or school zones which poses serious threats to pedestrians in the area. According to CSP, in 2023 troopers alone cited 1,237 people for speeding in low-speed zones, an increase of 12% over 2022. CSP data showed 48 of Colorado’s 64 counties had at least one driver given a citation, and El Paso County was the top county for speeding citations in 2023. The top five counties in Colorado where citations were issued were: El Paso County (222) Larimer County (131) Adams County (127) Mesa County (111) Garfield County (88) CSP said on Monday, that troopers will lower their tolerance for lane violations, speeding, and careless and reckless driving behaviors. More troopers will also be in the areas around the state that see an increase in traffic volume during the summer months, such as; Highways 34,40,50,160, and 287, along with the I-70 and I-25 corridors. CSP offered advice to drivers if they wanted to avoid a citation: Follow the posted speed limits, and if conditions warrant it, drive a safe speed below the limit. Circumstances that call for a speed reduction, include: Poor weather Heavy Traffic Construction zones Crash scenes Sun glare Wildlife Any activity on the right shoulder, including police activity or a citizen changing a tire Put down all distractions. Colorado will begin enforcement of its new “Hands-Free” law in January 2024. If you see an aggressive driver, keep your cool. Distance yourself from that driver and avoid eye contact. Have a passenger call *CSP and report the driver, but DO NOT attempt to follow the vehicle. "With schools back in session and ongoing construction activity, Colorado State Troopers intend to send a clear message to motorists - drive the posted limit and distraction-free to protect these vulnerable roadway users," writes CSP.