Colorado's Wildlife Crossings Cut Vehicle Collisions by 90%, Saving Lives and $80M Annually
Colorado families and motorists traveling through the state's mountain corridors are seeing dramatic improvements in road safety thanks to an extensive network of wildlife crossings that reduce animal-vehicle collisions by up to 90%, according to recent studies.
For Colorado Springs and Denver metro residents who regularly traverse I-70 and other mountain highways, these crossings represent a crucial safety investment. The Colorado Department of Transportation recently celebrated a major milestone with the completion of their first major wildlife crossing near Genesee on the I-70 Mountain Corridor.
Local Impact on Colorado Communities
The stakes are particularly high for Colorado drivers, as law enforcement receives approximately 5,000 reports of wildlife collisions annually, resulting in up to $80 million in:
- Emergency response costs
- Medical expenses for injured motorists
- Loss of valuable wildlife
- Vehicle damage and insurance claims
- Emergency response costs
- Medical expenses for injured motorists
- Loss of valuable wildlife
- Vehicle damage and insurance claims
Protecting Colorado's Wildlife Heritage
These crossings serve a dual purpose, according to wildlife experts. Beyond protecting Colorado motorists, they help preserve the state's rich wildlife diversity. Various species, from massive moose to nimble coyotes and playful otters, regularly use these crossings to safely navigate their historic migration routes.
Critical Timing for Mountain Drivers
Colorado drivers should exercise particular caution during fall migration season, when wildlife collisions spike dramatically. The most dangerous times are during dawn and dusk, when animals are most active and visibility can be challenging for motorists.
The state's comprehensive network includes:
- Wildlife overpasses
- Underground passages
- Modified bridges
- Strategic culverts
- Wildlife overpasses
- Underground passages
- Modified bridges
- Strategic culverts
For Colorado families planning mountain trips or commuting through wildlife-rich areas, these crossings represent a significant advancement in road safety and wildlife conservation, protecting both our state's motorists and its cherished wildlife heritage.
This article contains AI-generated content and reflects opinion only. Readers are encouraged to verify all information independently before drawing conclusions or making decisions.
