A four-vehicle crash on Interstate 70 near East Vail Wednesday night left two drivers seriously injured and caused significant traffic disruption. According to Colorado State Patrol, the collision began when a westbound Volvo semi-truck collided with another truck in the left lane while descending Vail Pass.
Both trucks crossed into the median, broke through the cable rail, and entered the eastbound lanes, where debris from the trucks damaged two additional vehicles—a Mazda CX-90 and a BMW X3. The semi-truck came to rest on the right side of the road after fully crossing the eastbound lanes, while the second truck stopped partially on the shoulder.
Two drivers, including the 67-year-old man operating the semi-truck, sustained serious injuries and were transported to the hospital. No injuries were reported among the occupants of the Mazda or the BMW.
Crashes involving multiple large vehicles on steep roads like Vail Pass are complex. For me, this accident raises several questions about what led to the collision.
What Caused the First Collision?
The key question in this case is what led to the semi-truck colliding with the other truck in the westbound lanes. Investigators will need to determine whether driver error, mechanical issues, or external factors contributed to the crash.
Descending Vail Pass can be challenging for large commercial vehicles due to steep grades and sharp curves. Investigators should examine whether the semi-truck’s brakes or other critical systems were functioning correctly and whether the driver was adhering to posted speed limits for the descent. Additionally, they should assess whether sufficient space was maintained between the vehicles. These details will help provide clarity about how the initial impact occurred.
Was the Cable Rail Effective?
Another focus should be on the median’s cable rail. While designed to stop vehicles from crossing into oncoming traffic, the barrier was breached in this case. Investigators will need to examine whether the rail was properly maintained and whether it was sufficient to contain two large trucks traveling at highway speeds.
What Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
Key evidence will include the Engine Control Module (ECM) data from both trucks, which can provide information about braking, speed, and throttle usage leading up to the crash.
Traffic camera footage or witness statements from other drivers on the interstate could offer additional clarity about how the collision began. The condition of the cable rail and the debris field should also be thoroughly analyzed to understand how the crash unfolded.
Why These Questions Need to Be Answered
Crashes like this disrupt lives and raise serious questions about road safety. Investigating the actions of the semi-truck driver, the condition of the vehicles, and the role of the cable rail is essential to determining what went wrong. In my experience, answering these questions is key to providing accountability and clarity for everyone involved.