A Colorado State Patrol trooper stopped a dangerous driver a few hundred yards from a work zone near Mesa Verde National Park on April 8, according to the agency.
“It could’ve been really unfortunate if the trooper didn’t act fast,” said Colorado Department of Transportation regional spokesperson Adair Christensen.
According to dashcam footage from Colorado State Patrol, a trooper began pursuing a Jeep Gladiator about 11 a.m. after it was seen driving on the shoulder of the opposing lane of traffic on U.S. Highway 160.
Motorists first alerted the trooper to the Jeep, whose driver failed to respond to flashing lights and sirens. The vehicle nearly collided with oncoming traffic several times while traveling 60 to 65 mph as the pursuit approached a construction zone near milepost 48. The trooper unsuccessfully attempted a tactical vehicle intervention.
The trooper then executed a second emergency maneuver, making contact with the suspect’s vehicle, which was still traveling 65 mph in an area where speed reduction signs instructed drivers to slow to 40 mph. The maneuver stopped the vehicle and prevented the pursuit from entering a work zone where a crew was actively working.
“He spun around right next to our last sign. And it was right before he entered into the work zone going head on into traffic too. It was pretty good timing,” said Michael Smith, the traffic control supervisor at the scene.
The driver, an 81-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of DUI, reckless driving and vehicular eluding.
The Colorado State Patrol said it shared footage of the pursuit and arrest as a reminder during National Work Zone Safety Week about the risks roadway workers face each day.
avanderveen@the-journal.com
