Drivers Cautioned about I-70 Sun Glare

December 11, 2017 - Denver Metro Colorado/CDOT Region 1 -  CLEAR CREEK COUNTY – Following this morning’s crash and safety closure on eastbound Interstate 70 at Floyd Hill, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is reminding drivers who travel the highway about the yearly sun glare problem in the area.  

 

Beginning in early November, and continuing through early February, the sun’s angle, in combination with the hill and the highway’s configuration, can create a blinding sun glare for drivers as they head eastbound up Floyd Hill (mile 244 to 247 – east of Idaho Springs).  The glare occurs from approximately 7 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. However, it is especially severe between 7:30 a.m. and 8 a.m. 

          CDOT provides advance notification of the potential hazard with messages on its electronic sign boards prior to Floyd Hill, alerting motorists of the sun glare and to anticipate slower speeds.

          Other driver recommendations include:

·         Making sure the windshield is clean – inside and out

·         Wearing a good pair of sunglasses to provide shading

·         Expecting traffic slowdowns and adjusting your speed to avoid sudden reactions

·         Letting off the accelerator and slowing down gradually instead of slamming on the brakes, if suddenly blinded by the sun

·         Avoiding eastbound travel on Floyd Hill, if possible, between 7 a.m. and 8:30 a.m.

CDOT also is reminding motorists of Colorado’s Move-It Law, a joint effort between CDOT and

law enforcement agencies to encourage motorists to follow a state law requiring drivers involved in minor accidents on interstates to move their vehicle immediately out of traffic to a safe location.  The insurance industry also encourages compliance with the Move It law, reassuring drivers there will still be a full investigation of the crash to determine fault.

“Many people are apprehensive about moving their vehicle after an accident, worried they’re jeopardizing their insurance coverage,” says Carole Walker, executive director of the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association.  “However, when it comes to safety, the industry fully supports taking actions that reduces potential hazards to drivers, first and foremost.”

          Road conditions can change quickly at this time of year.  Drivers can receive updated road and weather information by calling 511 or by going towww.cotrip.org.  Updates also are available via e-mail or text.  Please visit www.codot.gov and click on the envelope icon in the lower right-hand corner.  The link takes you to a list of items you can subscribe to, including I-70 West, Denver to Glenwood Springs.