Interstate 70 plays a critical role in connecting communities, commerce, and travel throughout Colorado. Unfortunately, its high volume of commercial traffic also makes it a common site for serious trucking accidents. Understanding why these crashes happen, the risks involved, and what your legal options are if you’ve been affected, can help you move forward confidently.

The Reality of Trucking Dangers on I-70

I-70 is a major east-west corridor, with large trucks carrying freight across state lines. The highway’s mountainous terrain, particularly as it passes through the Western Slope and Glenwood Springs region, creates unique driving challenges. Steep grades, unpredictable weather conditions, and heavy congestion near construction zones or tourist areas all add to the risk factors.

Contributing Factors in I-70 Truck Accidents

Weather and Terrain
Colorado’s mountainous routes can experience sudden changes in weather. Snow, ice, and low visibility make controlling a large semi-truck more difficult. Sharp turns and steep descents, such as those found near Eisenhower Tunnel or Vail Pass, demand experienced, cautious driving.

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations
Long-haul truck drivers operate under federal regulations that limit the number of hours they can drive consecutively. Nevertheless, some push the boundaries, leading to fatigue-related mistakes. A drowsy truck driver may fail to brake in time, drift across lanes, or misjudge distance and speed.

Mechanical Failures and Improper Maintenance
Brakes, tires, and steering systems must be regularly inspected and maintained. When trucking companies or operators neglect routine upkeep, the risk of a catastrophic malfunction increases.

Excessive Speed and Distracted Driving
The pressure to deliver cargo on tight schedules sometimes results in speeding. Distracted driving—be it from mobile devices, navigation systems, or other in-cab distractions—further compromises the safety of everyone on the road.

Here Are the Statistics

While exact year-to-year data can vary, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) consistently report that large trucks are disproportionately involved in fatal crashes compared to passenger vehicles. Nationwide data from FMCSA shows that large-truck crashes cause thousands of deaths each year, and a significant portion occurs on interstate highways like I-70.

1. Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) states that more than 200 crashes involving large trucks were reported on Colorado’s I-70 corridor in a recent year.

2. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) notes that large trucks are involved in approximately 13% of all fatal crashes on interstate highways, including segments of I-70.

3. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows a 5% increase in truck-related crashes on major interstate routes like I-70 between 2018 and 2020.

4. The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) has reported an uptick in truck-involved incidents on I-70’s steep and winding stretches, attributing some of these accidents to brake failures, speeding, and driver inexperience.

5. American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) found that segments of I-70 with sharp inclines or declines are correlated with higher brake-related violations in commercial trucks, increasing the likelihood of serious accidents.

6. Studies tracking interstate commerce suggest that as traffic volume increases—particularly during peak commercial transport seasons—crash rates on routes like I-70 tend to rise, reflecting the added risk of congestion and driver fatigue.

7. Analysis of federal crash data indicates that I-70’s mountainous conditions contribute to a heightened risk environment, with truck rollovers and jackknifing accidents occurring more frequently in these challenging sections of the interstate.

More Questions

1. What should I do immediately after a truck accident on I-70?

Call 911 to report the accident and seek medical attention right away, even if you feel fine. Make sure to gather contact information, take photos of the scene, and request a copy of the police report. Contacting an attorney early can help preserve crucial evidence.

2. How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a truck accident in Colorado?

In Colorado, the statute of limitations for auto accident claims is generally three years from the date of the accident. There are exceptions, and missing the deadline to file can prevent you from pursuing compensation. Consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you understand the timelines and any exceptions.

3. Can I still receive compensation if I was partially at fault?

Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are found less than 50% at fault, you may still recover damages, but your award may be reduced by the percentage of your fault. An experienced attorney can help evaluate liability and potential compensation.

4. How is compensation calculated after a truck accident?

Damages may include current and future medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, diminished earning capacity, and non-economic damages for pain and suffering. The exact amount depends on the severity of the injuries, the degree of fault, and available insurance coverage.

5. What if the trucking company’s insurer offers me a quick settlement?

Quick settlements often undervalue your claim. Before accepting any offer, consult with an attorney. A lawyer can determine if the offer covers both immediate and future expenses and help you negotiate a fair settlement.

6. Do I need a specialized attorney for truck accidents?

Yes. Truck accident cases are more complex than typical car accident claims. A lawyer experienced in trucking regulations, federal standards, and commercial insurance policies is better equipped to handle your claim effectively.

7. How does weather impact the liability in a truck accident?

Poor weather conditions do not absolve a driver or trucking company from responsibility. All commercial carriers are expected to adjust their driving behavior to the conditions. If a truck driver fails to slow down or maintain the vehicle properly, they can still be held liable for resulting accidents.