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What to do after a breakdown on I-25 or I-70
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Denver's interstates carry heavy, fast traffic, and the shoulder is one of the most dangerous places to stand. These steps keep you safer while you wait for help.
1. Get off the road if you can
If the car is still moving, signal and coast to the right shoulder, or better, take the next exit. A frontage road or parking lot is much safer than a highway shoulder.
2. Make yourself visible
Turn on hazard lights. Under Colorado's Move Over law, as expanded in 2023, drivers passing a stopped vehicle showing hazard lights must move over a lane, or if they cannot, slow down (the State Patrol describes this as 25 mph or less in a 40 mph zone, and at least 20 mph under the limit at 45 mph or above). Not every driver complies, so do not stand between your car and traffic.
3. Decide whether to stay in the car
If you are stopped in a lane, or the shoulder is narrow and traffic is fast, it can be safer to get out on the side away from traffic and stand well back behind a barrier. If you are safely off the road, staying buckled in is often better. Call 911 if you are in a travel lane or anyone is hurt.
4. Know your location
Note the nearest exit number, mile marker or cross street. On I-25 through Denver, exits are numbered by mile, which helps a tow operator find you quickly.
5. Request a tow
Say where you are, what happened and where the car should go. Ask for the full price before dispatch. See emergency towing.
Heading into the mountains on I-70
CDOT and the State Patrol say Colorado's Passenger Vehicle Traction Law is in effect on I-70 between Dotsero and Morrison from September 1 through May 31 when activated, and CDOT can activate it on any state highway. Under it, passenger vehicles need tires with at least 3/16-inch tread rated all-weather, M+S or mountain-snowflake, or chains or an approved traction device. CDOT lists a $50 fine plus surcharge for noncompliance. Good tires and a full tank are the best way to avoid needing a tow up there.