Cold weather contributing to car thefts, fines

For many drivers in Colorado, cold weather makes driving in a chilly car an uncomfortable experience. Because of this, it's not an uncommon practice to turn a car on and let it warm up while the driver goes back inside. But this idling is causing issues in the Boulder area. CU police are saying it's not a good idea as unattended cars, no matter if they're locked, are prone to thieves.

"Car thefts are certainly an issue that we deal with and the numbers tend to go
up in the winter because the opportunities are there where folks go
out and start their cars and then leave them unattended while they're warming
up," said CU Police Commander, Tim McGraw.

And while Commander McGraw says he can't blame drivers for wanting the engine on idle, it is illegal to leave a car on idling. This is considered a parking violation and can cost drivers a ticket up to $100.

For now, drivers may have to resort to wearing an extra layer or two in the
morning in order to bear through the chilly drive.