Urgent: Colorado Issues Wildlife Collision Alert – 8 High-Risk Road Sections
Denver, CO – October 14, 2025 – Colorado drivers, be warned! As the winter migration and mating seasons collide, the risk of encountering wildlife on roadways is spiking. The Colorado Parks & Wildlife Department (CPW) and the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) have jointly issued an urgent alert, identifying eight particularly dangerous road sections where collisions are most likely. This isn’t just about vehicle damage; it’s about saving lives – both human and animal. This breaking news is crucial for anyone traveling in Colorado, and we’re bringing you the details to keep you safe. We’re also diving into why these collisions happen and what you can do to protect yourself and the incredible wildlife that calls Colorado home.
The Rising Threat: Why Wildlife Collisions Are Increasing
According to a recent press release from the CSP, wildlife-related incidents are on the rise, especially during the critical months of October through December. Last year alone, CSP responded to a staggering 3,777 such incidents. The primary drivers? The annual winter migration as animals seek lower elevations, and the heightened activity of animals during mating season. Captain Matthew C. Packard of the CSP explained that breeding season makes animals more distracted and prone to unpredictable crossings.
It’s a heartbreaking reality. Just recently, a driver tragically lost their life after colliding with a moose near Highlands Ranch, a stark reminder of the potential consequences. These collisions aren’t just accidents; they’re often fatal for the animals involved, and can cause significant damage to vehicles and serious injuries to drivers.
Eight Colorado Road Sections with High Collision Risk
Based on data and expert analysis, CPW has pinpointed these eight areas as particularly hazardous:
- Interstate 70 (I-70): Floyd Hill, Mount Vernon Canyon, Eagle
- U.S. 285 (US 285): Morrison
- Highway 160: Durango~Pagosa Springs, Durango~Mancos
- Highway 550: North of Durango, Montrose~Ouray
- Interstate 25 (I-25): Castle Rock to Larkspur
- Highway 82: Glenwood Springs to Aspen
- Highway 36: Boulder to Lyons
- Highway 93: Golden to Boulder
Staying Safe: Expert Advice from CSP and CPW
The CSP isn’t just highlighting the problem; they’re offering crucial advice. The most effective strategies for minimizing risk are simple, yet vital: adhere to posted speed limits and, crucially, reduce your speed, especially during dusk and dawn – peak activity times for wildlife.
Here’s what to do if you encounter an animal on the road:
- Braking: If you have enough time and space, brake firmly and in a straight line. Avoid swerving, which can lead to loss of control.
- Staying Put: If braking isn’t an option, stay in your lane.
- Controlled Impact (Last Resort): If you’re in the outside lane or a single lane, a slight turn to hit the animal’s rear end is often advised, minimizing the impact to the vehicle’s passenger compartment.
Remember, wildlife is everywhere in Colorado, from elk in the high country to pronghorn on the plains. Being vigilant and respecting their space is paramount.
Beyond the Headlines: A Deeper Look at Wildlife and Road Safety
This isn’t a new problem. Wildlife-vehicle collisions have been a growing concern for decades, driven by increasing human populations and habitat fragmentation. Organizations like the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and the National Wildlife Federation are actively working on solutions, including wildlife overpasses and underpasses, and habitat restoration projects. These initiatives aim to provide safe passage for animals and reduce the frequency of these tragic encounters.
As Colorado continues to grow in popularity as a tourist destination, awareness and responsible driving habits are more important than ever. By staying informed, driving cautiously, and respecting the wildlife that shares our state, we can all contribute to a safer environment for both people and animals. Keep checking back with archyde.com for the latest updates on this developing story and other important news impacting Colorado.
