Drivers on westbound Highway 36 near Federal Boulevard had an unexpected obstacle Thursday morning when a large dog, possibly a bullmastiff, bolted into traffic and started threading the needle between moving cars.
AirTracker7 footage shows the animal sprinting along the roadway as drivers slowed, tapped their brakes, or pulled to the shoulder to avoid hitting it. The dog eventually left the highway at Federal and disappeared into a nearby neighborhood. It was not immediately clear whether the animal was injured or who owned it.
Denver7 traffic expert Jayson Luber, watching from AirTracker7, said the dog was first spotted moving westbound on the eastbound side of Highway 36 near Pecos Street. Some motorists slowed or stopped in an apparent attempt to help. Luber said the animal appeared to be a Bullmastiff or another similarly large breed before it exited the roadway, according to Denver7.
How motorists should respond
Transportation experts say that when an animal darts into traffic, the safest move for drivers is to brake firmly and in a controlled way, not swerve at the last second. Flashing headlights or using the horn can help warn other drivers and may also encourage the animal to move off the road.
The Colorado Department of Transportation recommends slowing down and using your horn or lights to push animals away from active lanes, while AAA notes that swerving to avoid an animal often leads to more serious crashes than a direct impact. For more detailed safety advice, see guidance from CDOT and AAA.
Why this matters on Highway 36
US Highway 36 is a major commuter corridor that often runs heavy with traffic and periodic lane work, which leaves drivers with less space and time to react when something unexpected shows up in front of them.
Recent maintenance and lane closures in the Federal Boulevard to Pecos Street stretch have already tightened the squeeze for motorists, which can make any animal on the roadway more dangerous for both drivers and the animal itself, CBS Colorado reported.
Anyone who witnessed the loose dog, captured video, or knows where it ended up is encouraged to contact local animal control or law enforcement so officials can check on its condition and work to reunite it with its owner. This story will be updated if authorities release additional information.
