WHEAT RIDGE, Colo. — A fatal crash involving a semi-truck on a stretch of Interstate 70 in Wheat Ridge has sparked a wave of concern among local drivers, who claim the hazardous conditions of the work zone where the accident occurred made the crash inevitable.
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) established the work zone in May as part of the I-70/Ward Road Interchange reconstruction. Since the deadly crash, which claimed three lives, hundreds of drivers who regularly travel the route have voiced their fears, many echoing the sentiment that the dangers were obvious.
"The turns are too sharp to even keep your car in the lane," said Don Carver, who commutes through the work zone daily.
The crash has prompted a flood of messages to 9NEWS, with drivers sharing stories and concerns about navigating the treacherous stretch of highway. One commenter, Brian Green, compared the conditions to the notoriously sharp turns of a California race track, saying, "So you're saying, the traffic pattern they borrowed from Laguna Seca Raceway didn't pan out after all? ...weird."
Carver described the difficulties posed by the work zone, noting obstructions like a bridge that blocks visibility, sharp left-right curves in quick succession, and a significant bump near the construction area. He recalled his first experience driving through it, saying he completely veered into the lane over.
"Now, I know I need to slow down, but a lot of people don't," Carver added.
Harry Payne, Carver’s colleague and fellow commuter, expressed his anxiety about the risks faced by truck drivers.
"I couldn't imagine driving a big truck through there… Every morning, if there's a truck near me, that's all I can think about — let's hope we make it through without it tipping over."
CDOT maintains that the work zone follows standard protocols, including a reduced speed limit and appropriate signage. However, Payne and Carver argue that the measures in place are insufficient.
"There should be an illuminated sign that tells people they need to slow down, that there are sharp curves ahead… The typical signage, I don't think is appropriate or adequate for this particular project," Carver said.
CDOT stated that they are "only aware of one previous accident in this area. If there have been others, the project has not been notified." They also acknowledged concerns about speeding through the work zone but are waiting for details from the ongoing crash investigation.
As long as the work zone remains, Payne and Carver have decided to alter their routes, despite any inconvenience.
"It doesn’t matter. It’s people’s lives we’re talking about," said Payne.
Three people were killed in the crash. They've been identified as:
- Ruben Rodriguez Garcia, 32
- Sindy Plata Martinez, 39
- Luz Martinez 60