The Colorado Department of Transportation recommends that all drivers follow a comprehensive safety plan, including the following:

• Always keep the top half of your gas tank full. It gives you better traction and a better margin of error if you get stranded.
• If you are stuck in a serious storm do not leave your car. Run the engine periodically to stay warm and wait for help.
• Carry blankets, water, a flashlight, a shovel, some nutrition bars or even candy bars for sustenance. Winterize your vehicle's safety kit by including extra blankets, sand to help gain traction in the event you become stuck on ice or snow, jumper cables, an ice scraper and lock de-icer.
• Four-wheel drive does not mean four-wheel stop. Your four-wheel drive vehicle will not stop quickly in icy conditions.
• Know your route. Don't go exploring without some local knowledge, especially when a storm is brewing. The weather can change quickly and violently in the Rocky Mountains - whatever time of year.
• Be sure you have good tires. The Colorado State Patrol recommends at least a 1/8" tread. All season radials on a front-wheel-drive passenger vehicle are adequate for most situations. Snow tires on most rear wheel drive vehicles are usually adequate.
• In poor visibility or even whiteout conditions, don't drive faster than you can see ahead. High speeds in poor or no visibility can lead to large chain reaction accidents. Remember you can't see around mountain curves and corners either.

It's quite possible you will encounter wildlife while driving through the Roaring Fork Valley, especially in spring and fall. Animals such as deer and elk roam the lower elevations frequently crossing roads and highways as part of their migration. According to the Colorado State Patrol, there were 84 vehicle/wildlife accidents along Hwy 82 between Aspen and Glenwood Springs in 2000. The majority of those accidents involved vehicles hitting deer and elk. Drivers are advised to take extra caution, especially at dawn and dusk. Although there are several underpasses along Hwy 82, many areas still experience a high number of wildlife crossings. Especially notable is the segment between Glenwood Springs and Carbondale as well as near the entrance to the Pitkin County Landfill.

Aspen is a town that encourages walking and biking as a means of commuting. Please stay alert and yield to pedestrians.

Aspen's system of trails and beautiful scenery combine to make walking and biking an ideal way to get around town. When you're on the road, please remember to use caution, watch for traffic and make yourself seen.

Pedestrian safety tips

Important bike safety information

Local Bicycle Organizations