CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The Wyoming Highway Patrol (WHP), in an effort to protect the motoring public and roadways in Wyoming, is asking truckers and other drivers to avoid parking on the shoulder of highways.
From February 2025 to April 2026, there were 70 crashes involving vehicles parked on the shoulder of Wyoming highways and county roads. These crashes resulted in six fatalities, 21 injuries and 51 instances of damaged property. This cost of life, injury and loss is often completely avoidable.
“The WHP would like to remind the motoring public as well as commercial drivers that parking on the shoulder of Wyoming highways is illegal, save for exceptions for emergencies,” WHP said. “These emergencies include mechanical breakdowns, medical emergencies, traffic stops and avoiding a collision.”
Commercial Vehicles
“Many instances of crashes involving vehicles on the side of the road involve commercial vehicles and highway speeds, making these crashes exceptionally dangerous and potentially lethal,” WHP said. “Please be aware of what is considered an emergency on the road, be prepared and make smart decisions as we all work together to prevent crashes and ensure the safety of our Wyoming roadways.”
Take Quick Action
In the event of one of these emergencies, pull over as far right on the shoulder as possible and take action to ensure the situation is concluded quickly. In the event of mechanical breakdown, call for assistance. For medical emergencies, call 911 immediately after parking.
“Instances like driver fatigue, phone calls, checking GPS, etc., are not considered emergencies and will result in a citation,” WHP said. “If you need to pull over, find the nearest exit to a safe and legal area such as a rest area or service station.”
Dana Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has been featured in multiple newspapers, books and magazines across the globe.
