8 Colorado Highways Named 'High Risk' Places You Might Hit a Deer

Wildlife collisions are part of driving on the highways of Colorado. It happens. I always feel bad for both the deer and the driver. What roads can you think of around the state that seem to be active with wildlife?

What are some of the "high-risk" highways for wildlife collisions in Colorado? Keep going for a list of the eight most high-risk highways in Colorado for wildlife accidents.

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Worst Months for Deer Collisions in Colorado

Most deer accidents occur in the spring and fall. The months of October and November are usually the worst. The deer are particularly active during mating season, and the last thing they are thinking about is how dangerous crossing a highway can be for them. Drive carefully, especially during the early morning hours and at sunset. Put the phone away and keep your eyes scanning both sides of the road when driving at dawn or dusk.

Colorado's "High Risk" Highways

These highways are located near forests and agricultural areas in Colorado. Some of the highest numbers of wildlife collisions happen here according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

Interstate 70 (Floyd Hill, Mt. Vernon Canyon and Eagle)
US 285 (Morrison)
Highway 160 (Durango to Pagosa Springs and Durango to Mancos)
Highway 550 (north of Durango and from Montrose to Ouray)
Interstate 25 (Castle Rock to Larkspur)
Highway 82 (Glenwood Springs to Aspen)
Highway 36 (Boulder to Lyons)
Highway 93 (Golden to Boulder)

What Should I Do If I Hit A Deer in Colorado?

If you hit a deer on a highway in Colorado you need to report the accident. It’s recommended you not only call the police, but you will also need to call Colorado Parks and Wildlife. This needs to be done within 48 hours of the accident. Be sure to take a look at your vehicle for damage and report it to your car’s insurance company.

Do not approach the animal, and do not assume your car is safe to drive without having it looked at. If you are so inclined to harvest the animal, you’ll need a special permit from Parks and Wildlife.

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