One state is requiring drivers to certify they are capable of driving one of its steepest mountain highways.
The Wyoming Department of Transportation’s WY22 SAFE PASS program, is a self-certification program to improve driver awareness of the challenges of mountain pass driving. It officially launches today.
WYDOT said the initiative introduces a mandatory self-certification process aimed at educating motorists on the safety challenges associated with the steep mountain terrain of Wyoming State Highway 22.
WYO 22, Teton Pass, is a heavily traveled connection between Wyoming and Idaho, with 10% grades that are twice as steep as average mountain passes. The program requires drivers who operate recreational vehicles, towing trailers and vehicles which have a gross vehicle weight combination or gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds to complete the program and self-certify their ability to navigate mountain
Applicants will be able to self-certify online at safepass.wyoroad.info. They will enter some basic information and review required safety materials. Once the applicant has completed the process, they will be sent a self-certification letter that will be active for one year. After one year, drivers can reapply for the program.
Applicants will be required to review educational materials, including documents, maps and videos related to safe driving practices on mountain passes. The materials will include information about navigating steep grades, current legal restrictions, braking protocols, weight and load limitations and vehicle operation.
Once the program is launched, Teton Pass will be restricted to drivers of RVs, drivers towing trailers and drivers who are above the legal weight unless they have completed the program. All other current legal restrictions will still apply, such as the 60,000 pounds weight restriction and any other seasonal closures or restrictions.
WYDOT said if a driver cannot complete the self-certification and are driving a vehicle that falls into the categories listed above, you are not permitted to drive the pass and must take an alternative route.
“Although the pre-certification is mandatory for certain users, we recommend all drivers complete the self-certification process. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about safe mountain pass driving and the inherent dangers on Teton Pass,” District 3 Engineer Peter Stinchcomb said.
Drivers who do not comply with the program could be cited for willfully ignoring an official sign, marker, warning, or direction closing or restriction under W.S. 24-1-109.
Drivers who are over the 10,000-pound weight limit and aren’t self-certified or are in violation of the 60,000 permanent weight restriction, could be cited for willfully violating weight-based road closure under W.S. 24-1-109.
Beyond the potential citations and fines, drivers who do not take the educational materials seriously could be putting themselves and others at risk through brake failure or other serious hazards, WYDOT said.
For more road and travel updates, drivers can sign up for 511 Notify alerts at https://www.wyoroad.info/511/511NotifyAnnouncement.html.
