Denver, CO — Crash Disrupts Traffic on US 40 Near I-70 by Floyd Hill

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Written by Bradley Smith

Denver, CO — Crash Disrupts Traffic on US 40 Near I-70 by Floyd Hill

Denver, CO (May 2, 2025) – A crash early Friday morning caused traffic disruptions along U.S. Highway 40 next to Interstate 70 near Floyd Hill, just west of Denver.

The collision occurred around 5:35 a.m. on May 2, prompting emergency crews to respond to the scene near this heavily traveled area connecting to mountain routes. The Colorado State Patrol and local authorities arrived quickly to assess the situation and begin clearing the roadway. Officials have not yet confirmed the number of vehicles involved or the extent of injuries, but sources indicate at least one person may have required medical attention.

The crash caused traffic delays in both directions as crews worked to remove debris and reopen the affected stretch of road. US 40 runs parallel to I-70 in this area and is often used by drivers trying to avoid congestion or navigate construction zones. Given the narrow lanes and curves near Floyd Hill, this portion of roadway is particularly prone to collisions. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash and have not yet released additional details.

We hope anyone injured in this accident makes a timely recovery.

Car Accidents in Colorado

Colorado’s mountain corridors, including I-70 and U.S. Highway 40, are known for their high crash rates due to steep grades, unpredictable weather, and heavy traffic from commuters and tourists. The Colorado Department of Transportation reports that hundreds of accidents occur annually along these roads, especially in areas with winding terrain or limited visibility.

These challenging driving conditions contribute to a variety of accident types. Below are several key factors that often lead to crashes in mountain areas like Floyd Hill:

  • Speed on Curves and Descents: Drivers unfamiliar with mountain roads may underestimate how quickly speed builds on downhill slopes. Failing to reduce speed before a curve can lead to a loss of control or crossing into oncoming traffic.
  • Brake Failure and Overheating: Extended braking on long descents can cause brake systems to overheat or fail—particularly in older vehicles or trucks. This mechanical failure can lead to rear-end crashes or vehicles running off the road.
  • Limited Passing Zones: Impatient drivers sometimes attempt to pass on two-lane sections of the road, even in unsafe conditions. Illegal passing maneuvers are a common cause of head-on collisions in mountainous regions.
  • Reduced Visibility from Fog or Snow: Sudden changes in elevation can bring unexpected fog or icy conditions. These rapid weather shifts reduce reaction time and increase the likelihood of chain-reaction crashes.

If you or a loved one was injured in a crash on Colorado’s mountainous roads, it is important to speak with our Denver car accident attorney at Smith & Weidinger right away. These types of cases can involve complex liability questions, especially when steep terrain or mechanical issues are involved. Our experienced attorney can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, missed work, and pain related to the crash.

At Smith & Weidinger, we offer free consultations and are ready to help you. Our Denver car accident attorneys understand the specific dangers of Colorado’s highways and how to build strong cases on behalf of crash victims. We’re committed to helping you get the justice and financial relief you deserve. Let us handle the legal side so you can focus on your recovery. Call us at 720-996-2600 to get started.

Note: The information provided in this blog post has been compiled from publicly available and secondary sources. While we strive for accuracy, some details may become outdated or contain inadvertent errors. If you believe any information is incorrect or requires updating, please contact Smith & Weidinger so that we may review and make the appropriate corrections.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a solicitation for business. The photo used is not from the scene of the incident described. Viewing this content does not create an attorney-client relationship with Smith & Weidinger. If you have been injured in an accident, please seek immediate medical attention and then consult with a qualified attorney to discuss your legal rights and options.

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