As a daily commuter to and from Summit County, I often witness vehicles driving aggressively and speeding, far above posted limits. The Tuesday after Labor Day was no exception — and it served as a powerful reminder of why it’s so important to drive alert at the posted speed. 

While heading back to Kremmling, I found myself in front of a semi transporting a house. After its lead vehicle passed me, speeding ahead and disappearing, it left the semi to navigate Colorado Highway 9 and Green Mountain Reservoir’s narrow, shoulderless curves alone. At one point, it had to stop both lanes of traffic to cross a bridge — all without proper guidance. 

Recognizing the danger, I put on my emergency lights and acted as an informal lead vehicle. I signaled to oncoming traffic before the semi approached blind turns, helping everyone slow down and pass safely. We navigated the hills, animal tunnels, and tight turns this way until we finally caught up with the original lead car at the turn entering Kremmling. 

Thankfully, drivers that day were patient and respectful of the conditions. But it made me think — what if someone had come flying around a corner, distracted or speeding? 

This was a clear reminder that we all need to do our part: drive the speed limit, stay alert, read the road and cruise with care. You never know what could be around the next bend. And being the example can be the difference for everyone and everything sharing our highways.