The Grand County Sheriff’s Office announced in an Aug. 16 press release that it is implementing a zero-tolerance approach to traffic enforcement on county and state roads due to “an extremely concerning increase in fatal traffic accidents and persistent issues with excessive speeding, aggressive driving and illegal passes.”

Deputies will strictly enforce violations such as excessive speeding, aggressive driving and illegal passes, with penalties including immediate arrest, vehicle towing and fines, according to the release.

A fatal U.S. Highway 40 collision and a fiery crash that killed a family of five on Colorado Highway 9 occurred just three days apart in August, sparking public safety concerns.

“The safety of our community is paramount, and the recent loss of life on our roads is unacceptable,” Grand County Sheriff Brett Schroetlin is quoted as saying in the release. “We have seen a blatant disregard for traffic laws, putting every driver, passenger, pedestrian and cyclist at risk. This behavior will no longer be tolerated.”

Reckless drivers face immediate arrest for repeat offenses or egregiously operating a vehicle in addition to “significant” fines and points on driving records, the release states.

Sheriff’s office officials said the strategy aims to prevent further tragedies by deterring reckless behavior, not just issuing citations. As part of the plan, deputies will increase patrol visibility and encourage residents to report dangerous driving.

Officials are also reminding drivers to maintain everyday safety practices: obey speed limits, eliminate distractions, wear seatbelts, drive sober and watch for pedestrians and cyclists.