x
Breaking News
More () »

Driver dies in crash on I-70 EB in Wheat Ridge

One vehicle crashed into the median on Interstate 70 near Wadsworth Boulevard, according to police.
Credit: CDOT
The eastbound lands of Interstate 70 are closed near Kipling Street due to a fatal crash on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024.

WHEAT RIDGE, Colo. — Interstate 70 eastbound lanes reopened Tuesday afternoon near Wadsworth Boulevard after the investigation of a fatal crash, according to Wheat Ridge Police.

One vehicle was involved in the crash on Tuesday morning, police said. The driver crashed into the concrete median. There were no passengers in the vehicle.

Police shut down two lanes of eastbound I-70 for the investigation. All eastbound lanes were briefly closed about 12:45 p.m. They have since reopened.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

More 9NEWS traffic coverage:

RELATED: Potato-filled semi truck catches fire in Jefferson County

RELATED: Repairs begin on Jefferson County bridge hit by 'oversized load'

RELATED: Roundabout rules: A refresher for all drivers

> Top stories from 9NEWS curated daily just for you! Sign up for the 9NEWSLETTER right now to get can’t-miss stories, Next and Broncos content, weather and more delivered right to your inbox.

SUGGESTED VIDEOSLatest from 9NEWS 

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) provides these tips for safe driving in Colorado: 

  • Expect the unexpected 
  • Slow down 
  • Don't tailgate 
  • Be aware of emergency crews 
  • Heed signs 
  • Obey flaggers 
  • Stay alert and minimize distractions 
  • Keep with the traffic flow 
  • Plan your drive 
  • Be patient and stay calm

It is also important to be aware of emergency vehicles. 

Colorado's Move Over Law requires drivers to move over a lane when there’s an emergency situation along the shoulder. If the driver can’t move over, they must slow down significantly to avoid an accident.  

The law was implemented in 2005 and strengthened in 2020. A CDOT news release states: "The updated law stipulates that if a driver is unable to move at least one lane away from the stationary emergency vehicle, the driver must slow down to at least 25 miles per hour on roadways with a speed limit below 45 miles per hour. On roadways with speed limits 45 miles per hour or more, motorists must slow down to 20 miles per hour less than the posted speed limit. Drivers that fail to slow down or move over commit the crime of careless driving, a class 2 misdemeanor traffic offense that can result in up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $300." 

CDOT recommends people check COtrip.org to find out about road conditions, construction zones, and traffic alerts.

Before You Leave, Check This Out