A Colorado State Patrol trooper was involved in a crash Saturday morning while securing the scene of a previous accident on Interstate 70. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the incident caused a temporary highway closure and raised concerns about driver awareness in poor weather conditions.
Collision on I-70 Leaves Patrol Vehicle Damaged
A Colorado State Patrol vehicle was hit from behind while stopped in the left lane of eastbound I-70. The crash took place at approximately 9 a.m. near milepost 105, between Rifle and Glenwood Springs. The trooper was stationed there to block off the scene of an earlier accident when an approaching vehicle struck the patrol car.
Despite the impact, both the trooper and the driver of the vehicle that caused the collision escaped unharmed. Emergency responders arrived swiftly to assess the situation, and traffic was rerouted until the roadway was cleared.
Highway Closure and Traffic Impact
For over an hour, eastbound lanes of I-70 remained closed while authorities worked to clear debris and assess vehicle damage. The highway was reopened shortly after 10 a.m., restoring traffic flow between Rifle and Glenwood Springs.
One local driver who was delayed by the closure shared their frustration but also acknowledged the importance of safety measures. “It’s annoying to be stuck in traffic, but it’s way better than ending up in an accident,” the driver said.
Weather Conditions a Growing Concern
Recent weather patterns have made driving in Colorado increasingly hazardous. Snowfall, icy patches, and unpredictable road conditions have contributed to multiple crashes along I-70 in recent weeks.
- Drivers are urged to reduce speed when visibility is low or roads are slick.
- Keeping a safe distance between vehicles can prevent rear-end collisions like this one.
- Distractions, such as phone use or adjusting vehicle controls, should be minimized to maintain full attention on the road.
The CSP continues to stress these safety precautions, especially during winter months when highways can become treacherous within minutes.
Previous Incidents Highlight Dangers for Emergency Responders
This is not the first time a patrol vehicle has been struck while responding to an incident. In recent years, similar crashes have occurred across the country, raising concerns about how drivers react to emergency vehicles on the road.
| Year | Location | Incident Type | Injuries |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Denver, CO | Trooper’s car rear-ended | No |
| 2024 | Colorado Springs, CO | Officer struck outside car | Minor |
| 2025 | Grand Junction, CO | Vehicle hit from behind | No |
Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of Colorado’s Move Over law, which requires drivers to slow down and change lanes when approaching emergency or roadside assistance vehicles with flashing lights activated.
CSP’s Ongoing Efforts to Keep Roads Safe
The Colorado State Patrol remains committed to ensuring road safety and responding to emergencies as efficiently as possible. Troopers often put themselves at risk when stationed at accident sites, making driver cooperation essential.
One CSP spokesperson noted, “Our goal is to protect drivers and keep roads safe. We need everyone to do their part by paying attention, slowing down, and respecting the space of emergency responders.”
As winter conditions persist, CSP urges all drivers to exercise caution and prioritize safety over speed. With the right precautions, incidents like this can be avoided, keeping both law enforcement and the public out of harm’s way.
