The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) is warning drivers to stay alert for wildlife, especially when traveling along I-70 near Lookout Mountain, Evergreen, and Highway 74. Wildlife crashes are becoming more common, particularly during the summer months.
Wildlife Crashes Are a Growing Concern in Colorado
In 2024, animal-related crashes ranked as the third most frequent cause of road accidents in Colorado. Troopers investigated 3,573 such incidents, with most crashes only damaging the driver’s vehicle. Sadly, most animals involved in these accidents did not survive.
CSP says that some of the worst animal-related crashes happen on westbound I-70 and Hwy 74. June and July are calving season months, meaning more animals are on the move. Many of these crashes occur during dusk or dawn, when visibility is low and animals are harder to see.
Simple Safety Tips to Avoid Hitting Wildlife
To reduce the risk of a collision with wildlife, Colorado State Patrol advises drivers to follow these safety tips:
- Scan the road and roadside areas for animal movement or glowing eyes
- Use high-beam headlights at night when it’s safe
- Flash your lights at oncoming drivers to warn them of nearby animals
- Don’t honk at animals on or near the road
- Stop safely for animals and turn on your hazard lights
- Always follow the speed limit
If an animal suddenly appears and you can’t stop in time, CSP advises drivers to hit the animal rather than swerve. Swerving might cause a worse crash with other vehicles or lead you off the road.
Protect Your Pets When You Travel
If you’re traveling with a pet, make sure they are properly restrained. Just like you wear a seatbelt, your pet also needs protection during a crash. Unrestrained pets are at high risk of injury.
Crashes Can Be Expensive and Dangerous
Wildlife crashes cost a lot. According to the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association, U.S. insurance companies pay around $1.1 billion every year for wildlife crash claims. The average cost for each crash is over $3,000 in property damage alone.
What to Do After a Wildlife Crash
If you hit an animal or witness a crash involving wildlife, treat it like any emergency—call 911. If you see an injured animal on or near the road, call *CSP to alert the right wildlife rescue services.
Colorado roads are known for their scenic beauty, but they also come with wildlife risks—especially during summer calving season. The Colorado State Patrol urges all drivers to stay alert, slow down, and take extra care during dusk and dawn. With simple steps, you can protect yourself, your vehicle, and the animals that share our roads.