Driver Nearly Plunges Into Colorado River After Ignoring Roadblock at Flood-Destroyed Bridge

A driver in southwestern Colorado narrowly avoided a potentially deadly accident after bypassing a roadblock and continuing toward a bridge that had been destroyed by severe flooding.

The alarming incident occurred near the Piedra River, where floodwaters had caused the bridge carrying US Highway 160 to collapse. Despite the road closure, the motorist reportedly drove past barriers installed by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), heading toward the missing section of roadway.

Footage shared by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) showed officers stopping the vehicle before it reached the dangerous area. The agency later warned motorists that ignoring road closures could have catastrophic consequences, particularly when flood damage has left roads and bridges unsafe or completely washed away.

The Piedra River bridge was among several transportation structures severely damaged by repeated storms across southwestern Colorado. According to CDOT, the bridge’s piers collapsed under the force of the floodwaters, leaving the crossing impassable and requiring reconstruction.

The damage extended well beyond the bridge. Flooding and mudslides affected highways throughout the region, forcing authorities to close roads and carry out emergency repairs. Some communities also faced evacuations as rivers rose dangerously high.

Officials urged drivers to respect barricades and avoid attempting to cross flooded or damaged roads. Even when water levels begin to fall, the ground beneath roadways and bridges can remain unstable, creating hazards that may not be visible to motorists.

The incident served as a stark reminder of the risks facing emergency crews and residents during the ongoing recovery from the severe flooding.

Source: DAILYMAIL