COLORADO — Colorado State Patrol shared video of a semi-truck using a runaway truck ramp on Interstate 70, reminding drivers that the ramps are there to prevent serious crashes when a commercial vehicle loses braking ability on steep mountain grades.
CSP said the video was captured a few days ago on westbound I-70 while the semi was coming down Eisenhower Pass.
Semi Uses Runaway Ramp on I-70
The video shows the semi entering a runaway truck ramp along westbound I-70.
Troopers said the footage highlights the importance of using the ramps when needed, especially on steep mountain routes where brake failure can quickly become dangerous.
CSP also used the video to educate other motorists on what to do if they see a runaway semi approaching from behind.
Troopers Tell Drivers to Move Left
“If you are driving down the road and observe a runaway semi-truck coming towards you in your rearview mirrors, stay calm and attempt to merge to the left, as all runaway truck ramps in Colorado are on the right shoulder,” CSP said.
Troopers said moving left gives the truck room to safely enter the ramp without colliding with other vehicles.
“This will allow the truck to safely enter the ramp without colliding with anyone,” CSP said.
I-70 Ramp Among Most Used in U.S.
CSP has previously said that runaway truck ramps are used most often during the summer.
According to state freight safety information, the Lower Straight Creek runaway truck ramp on westbound I-70 near mile marker 211.83 is the most heavily used runaway truck ramp in Colorado and the United States.
CSP has also said 65% of drivers who used an I-70 runaway truck ramp had five years or less of driving experience.
Hot Brake Areas Identified
Officials said key areas for hot brakes along I-70 include westbound traffic just east of Silverthorne near Exit 205 and eastbound traffic near Georgetown at Exit 228.
Colorado officials also note that major truck crashes often happen at the switchback curve near the Wolf Creek scenic overlook on Colorado Highway 160.
Troopers said the goal of sharing the video is to encourage truck drivers to use runaway ramps when necessary and to remind other motorists to give commercial vehicles space when an emergency is unfolding.
📸 Video shared by Colorado State Patrol and used under fair use for news reporting.
