I-25 and Castle Rock named on CDOT’s list of high-risk areas
The segment of I-25 just south of Castle Pines is recognized as a high-risk area for accidents involving wildlife.
Article and photo by Julie Montoya
Most of us have been there…driving along and spotting an animal, or just a set of eyes reflecting back in the headlights on the road. Living in Colorado, this is a part of life.
Recently the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) released a list of eight high-risk areas in the state where sightings and accidents involving wildlife on the roads is on the rise, and Castle Rock is on the list. I-25 from Castle Rock to Larkspur is reported as one of the eight high-risk areas in the state.
In recent weeks, the number of accidents involving wildlife has risen dramatically. Ashley Mohn from CDOT suggests this increase may be due to the recent Colorado wildfires. In the past month, two bears have been included in the number of auto versus animal collisions in Castle Rock. Many of these accidents have been serious collisions, and all of them have ended in the death of the animal.
Mohn recommends that drivers adhere to Colorado safety standards when driving, the foremost being to slow down! Drivers need to be extra cautious at dawn and dusk, which are particularly hazardous times for animals to be on the roads. Mohn recommends honking if you see an animal standing on the road. Honking can “wake up” the animal from its shock, and get them moving away to safety.
Topping the list of high risk areas is I-70 at Floyd Hill/Mt. Vernon Canyon and Eagle. Also included is US 285 at Morrison; Hwy 160, Durango to Pagosa Springs and Durango to Mancos; Hwy 550, north of Durango and Montrose to Ouray; our very own I-25, Castle Rock to Larkspur; Hwy 82, Glenwood Springs to Marble; Hwy 36, Boulder to Lyons; and Hwy 93, Golden to Boulder.
In 2011, CDOT stepped up vehicle-wildlife collision mitigation plans, but CDOT reminds drivers that the best defense is always a good offense. Stay alert, watch your speeds, and keep your eyes on the road!
