CDOT: Drive safely through I-25 as high-traffic season nears
The Colorado Department of Transportation is asking people to drive safely and responsibly through the I-25 South Gap construction zone ahead of heavy traffic season.
Tamara Rollison with CDOT said vehicle crashes can be reduced by driving the posted speed limits in the construction zones and by not following too closely.
“When we have a crash it really does cause significant backups,” Rollison said.
Sergeant Blake White of the Colorado State Patrol says crashes in the I-25 South Gap have almost doubled compared to the same time last year; but it’s not the construction itself causing these accidents.
“People are driving through and they’re not used to those lane shifts, they’re not used to having them a little tighter,” White said. “They’re still making those decisions of following too close, speeding, playing on their cellphone. That’s what causes crashes, not the construction.”
Rollison said the 4th of July marks the traditional start of high traffic season and said people can help reduce the number of crashes by driving extra cautiously.
The I-25 South Gap project is expected to be completed in fall of 2022.
Here are other tips from CDOT to help you drive safer this summer:
1. Stay Alert . Plan enough time to stop along the way to stretch, get something to eat and drink, return any calls or text messages, and change drivers if you’re feeling tired or drowsy.
2. Avoid Distracted Driving . The focus always should be on driving. Avoid using cellphones, texting, eating, and using in-vehicle technologies.
3. Don’t drive impaired . Increased DUI enforcement from July 3 to July 8
4. Watch for more pedestrians and bikes . Warm temperatures mean more people are outside walking or bicycling. Slow down and pay extra attention at crosswalks and along roadways.
5. Share the road with motorcycles . Motorcycles may quickly come in and out of your blind spots due to their speed and size. Always take a second look with more motorcycles out on the road.
6. Obey all posted speed limits . Or drive slower, if necessary, based on weather or traffic conditions.
7. Maintain proper tire air pressure . Warmer temperatures can cause tires to be overinflated.
8. Turn your lights on . Especially during twilight hours, making it easier for other drivers to see you.
9. Semi-trucks and other large vehicles tend to drive at slower speeds . Be prepared to slow down, stay out of their blind spots, pay close attention to turn signals, and give them extra space to maneuver.
