The Colorado Department of Transportation reminded motorists on April 14 that winter weather hazards remain a concern, following recent crashes across the state. The department said another fast-moving system is expected to bring snow and hazardous conditions from Thursday evening, April 16, through Friday morning, with a hard freeze possible Friday night.
Officials noted that although this year has been unusually dry, spring snowstorms can still create dangerous driving conditions. The department stressed the importance of following Traction and Chain Laws for public safety and warned that posted speed limits apply only under ideal circumstances. Drivers are urged to slow down and allow extra space during storms.
“Tuesday’s crashes are a sobering example of how quickly conditions deteriorate when drivers are unprepared for Colorado’s unpredictable winter weather,” said Shoshana Lew, executive director of the Colorado Department of Transportation. “We are seeing a dangerous trend of motorists neglecting safety protocols. The reality is that mountain passes and the Interstate 70 Mountain Corridor can transition from dry pavement to ice in minutes.”
During winter storms or when required by road conditions, CDOT may implement Passenger Vehicle Traction laws on any state highway. This requires all vehicles to have proper traction equipment available. Commercial vehicles must carry chains or alternative traction devices and be ready to use them immediately when notified by highway alerts.
Forecasts from the Weather Forecast Office Denver/Boulder indicate varying snowfall amounts across Colorado between Thursday evening and Saturday evening, with higher elevations such as Conifer, Steamboat Springs, and Winter Park expecting up to six inches.
Motorists are encouraged to check COtrip.org or use the COtrip Planner App for real-time road updates before traveling into high country areas.
According to the official website, the Colorado Department of Transportation works to improve quality of life through integrated transportation solutions while overseeing infrastructure statewide according to the official website. The agency builds and maintains interstates as well as U.S. highways and administers grants for aviation and transit according to its official website. Lew serves as executive director as indicated on its website, leading efforts focused on highway maintenance along with support for aviation and transit as per its official site.
