SUV Crosses Center Line, Collides With Semi on US 491

A serious two vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 491 south of Stotz Equipment and County Road N sent one driver to the hospital and temporarily disrupted traffic on the afternoon of November 20. At approximately 3:20 p.m. a Chevrolet Trax crossed the center line and collided with the left side of a Freightliner Cascadia semitrailer, according to Colorado State Patrol reports. The impact rolled the Chevrolet several times and ejected the SUV driver, who sustained serious injuries.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene and secured the area. The highway was partially closed for about two hours to allow for medical treatment, traffic control, and a trooper investigation into the cause and circumstances of the collision. Colorado State Patrol Sgt. Ivan Alvarado provided incident details regarding how the Chevrolet crossed the center line. Local authorities and emergency units coordinated to clear the scene and reopen lanes to traffic.

The partial closure and resulting traffic congestion affected commuters, local commercial traffic, and agricultural haulers that routinely use U.S. Highway 491. The stretch near Stotz Equipment and County Road N is a key route for residents and businesses in Dolores County, and interruptions on this corridor can have outsized effects on travel times and freight schedules. Residents reported delays during the afternoon response window, and drivers are advised to expect increased congestion near the site in the days following the incident as investigators complete their work and traffic returns to normal patterns.

Beyond immediate travel impacts, the collision highlights broader community concerns about roadway safety and emergency response on rural highways. Ejections from vehicles often indicate severe force and raise questions about occupant protection, road design, and driver behavior. The Colorado State Patrol will continue its investigation to determine contributing factors including vehicle dynamics, driver actions, and environmental conditions at the time of the crash.

For Dolores County residents the incident is a reminder to drive with caution on U.S. Highway 491, especially in areas where agricultural and commercial vehicles are common. Motorists should allow extra travel time when passing the Stotz Equipment area and County Road N, and remain attentive to changing traffic conditions. The Journal will follow up as the State Patrol releases additional findings and any recommendations arising from the investigation.