Glenwood Canyon crash prompts Colorado lawmakers to address safety issues

Following a recent semi truck crash in Glenwood Canyon that caused significant traffic disruption on I-70, Colorado lawmakers have taken action to enhance safety measures for commercial vehicles. The Colorado Department of Transportation had previously implemented a 'Right lane only' rule for commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in the canyon, but new legislation has expanded these regulations. This includes reduced speed limits and additional locations where the lane restriction applies, such as Georgetown Hill and the Eisenhower and Johnson tunnels. The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) is actively monitoring compliance with these new laws, although they have not yet released specific statistics on enforcement. Reports indicate that troopers were already pulling over trucks for lane violations prior to the new law's enactment. The increased scrutiny comes in response to the alarming frequency of truck-related accidents in the area, which have raised concerns among both lawmakers and the public. Vince Cerone, a frequent traveler on I-70, expressed relief over the new regulations, citing personal experiences with dangerous truck behavior on steep mountain passes. His observations highlight the potential risks posed by out-of-control semi trucks, which can cause severe damage in accidents. The CSP is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the latest crash, including possible speeding and lane violations by the driver involved. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on improving safety for all drivers on I-70, particularly in hazardous areas like Glenwood Canyon. The hope is that these legislative changes will lead to a reduction in accidents and enhance overall road safety for both commercial and private vehicles.