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I-70 in the summer is full of driving hazards that are unique to the Colorado area. The major highway’s winding turns, proximity to wildlife, and steep grades also can make it a challenge to drive. Add in tourist traffic, road closures and summer fire risk, and you have a trifecta of hazards for Colorado drivers.
The attorneys of Frank Azar Car & Truck Accident Lawyers are no stranger to the costly and damaging accidents that take place along I-70. Today we want to take a look at some of them so you can stay safe while traveling this summer.
Major Construction Projects on I-70
Two of the most active construction projects along I-70 this summer include the I-70 Floyd Hill area and I-70 West Vail Pass Auxiliary Lane. At least an eight mile section of the I-70 Mountain Corridor, from west of Evergreen to eastern Idaho Springs and including the Veterans Memorial Tunnels, will be under construction. There is also resurfacing planned for I-70 from Chief Hosa to Morrison, daytime single lane closures and occasional overnight full closures in the Clear Creek Canyon. Additionally, work is planned to take place through August 2026 on the Glenwood Canyon Bridge.
While construction is a hazard and a hassle to drivers, part of the reason for these improvement projects is to make the area safer. Slews of I-70 have been identified for their risky tight curves, dangerous glare from the median, as well as the need for improved wildlife fencing.
Why Roadwork Increases the Risk of an Accident
Construction delays are more than just a hassle on I-70. They can also be a significant threat to road safety. Work zones can change the existing flow of traffic, making drivers navigate lane closures and delays. Sightlines can be obscured, and confusing directions may be offered to already frustrated drivers who need to follow a detour. All of this can cause distracted driving and aggressive driving behaviors, some of the main causes of accidents nationwide.
Fire Threats Along the I-70 Corridor
In fire season I-70 can become especially dangerous for motorists. Wildfire is not the only risk to drivers, as vehicle malfunctions and trucking accidents can also lead to fire threats along the I-70 corridor. Fires can cause extreme heat, issues with air quality, and low visibility from drifting smoke. All of these can quickly escalate into causing multi-car pileups or fatal accidents. Some recent fires along I-70 this summer include:
Dangerous Summer Weather Events
Summer weather in Colorado is one of the best times of year, but rock slides and flash floods, as well as extreme heat and fire conditions, all pose risks. Even sun glare while coming around a curve can be distracting. Be alert while you’re traveling on I-70 this summer, and plan an alternate route in case the weather turns.
Other Potential Dangers on I-70 This Summer
Tourism is important to every state’s economic health, but tourists can make travel a bit riskier. Summer accidents on I-70 may be caused by out-of-state drivers who aren’t familiar with the winding curves and steep hills around Glenwood Canyon and Grand Junction, or who are not prepared for the onset of altitude sickness. Summer traffic can lead to delays, congestion, sudden turnarounds, confused signaling, and other problems for locals.
Wildlife is also high on the list of dangers. According to CBS Colorado, over 3,500 crashes on I-70 were caused in 2024 by wildlife. Animal-related crashes are more common on I-70 than on other state roads due to its intersection with Golden and Glenwood Springs. Motorists may not see animals until it is too late, or may attempt to swerve to avoid them, and cause a pile-up with other cars that could not get out of the way in time. All of these variables create driving hazards along I-70 that can lead to catastrophic injuries and property damage.
What Should You Do If You Crash on I-70 in Colorado?
If you have been in a crash on I-70, assess the situation and call for emergency help if necessary. If there is a fire risk, move away from the area and call 911. Do not step into the flow of traffic if you can avoid it.
If you’ve been hurt, you must see a doctor as soon as possible. This can be a life-saving measure as many internal injuries will not be detectable on their own or present with symptoms right away. Furthermore, failing to see a doctor right away can jeopardize your claim for recovery, as the other party may be able to argue that something you did after the crash caused your injury later on. Bear in mind, Colorado is a comparative negligence state. If you are deemed to be 49% at fault or less for your crash, you may be able to collect compensation – but we want you to have the best chance at the largest recovery possible. Seeking medical attention after a wreck can help support your claim for damages.
Exchange insurance information with all the parties involved, and attempt to write down the contact information for any witnesses who may have seen what happened. Take photos and videos of the scene, including the roadway and surrounding natural areas.
After you have received medical help, call a Colorado car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Frank Azar Car & Truck Accident Lawyers is Colorado’s largest personal injury law firm. As local Coloradans, we know the hazards along I-70 and know that in many cases the crash could not have been avoided. We bring the strong arm advantage to every case we handle, pursuing maximum compensation for our clients.
When to Call Frank Azar Car & Truck Accident Lawyers
If you’ve been hurt in a crash along I-70, contact Frank Azar Car & Truck Accident Lawyers today. We have offices throughout Colorado located in Aurora, Boulder, Colorado Springs, Denver, Fort Collins, Glenwood Springs, Grand Junction, Greeley, Lakewood, Littleton, Longmont, Pueblo, and Thornton. Our experienced accident attorneys may be able to help you recover compensation after a crash. Contact us today to find out how we can help.
