Wyoming Installed New Safety Signs on Teton Pass

The state launched a new safety program following a series of fatal accidents on Highway 22 this summer.

Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Trucks

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The Wyoming Department of Transportation has installed updated safety signage on Teton Pass following three fatal accidents on Highway 22 this summer. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Wyoming Department of Transportation crews began installing updated safety signage on Teton Pass following three deaths and multiple injuries during the summer of 2026. The new signs are designed to reach all motorists rather than just commercial truck operators.

Why it matters

The safety measures respond to a surge in accidents on the steep mountain terrain of Teton Pass. Officials implemented these changes to better inform drivers of critical hazards like sharp curves and gear requirements before they navigate the challenging route.

New signs now warn all motorists about steep grades and low gear requirements, replacing previous warnings focused only on truckers. A new mandate applies to any vehicle over 10,000 pounds.

The players

Wyoming Department of Transportation

This state agency oversees the planning, construction, and maintenance of the highway system throughout Wyoming.

The details

The new signage includes mandated brake checks at the summit and additional No Parking warnings along Highway 22. Drivers operating vehicles exceeding 10,000 pounds must now complete the Safe Pass education program and self-certify their vehicle preparation.

Timeline

  1. Summer 2026: Three deaths and multiple injuries occurred on Teton Pass.

  2. September 21, 2026: Wyoming Department of Transportation crews began installing the new safety signs.

  3. October 1, 2026: Mandatory Safe Pass program requirements take effect for heavy vehicles.

Roadmap

The new safety requirements represent a shift toward mandatory driver accountability on hazardous public roads. This evolution moves state policy away from passive signage toward active driver certification programs to mitigate risks in mountainous corridors.

Motorists driving vehicles over 10,000 pounds face mandatory certification requirements to use the pass legally. All drivers should prepare for stricter parking enforcement and mandatory brake checks when navigating Highway 22.

The takeaway

Drivers should ensure their vehicle is properly maintained and their gear usage is correct before tackling steep mountain grades. Adhering to the new signage and completing the Safe Pass program is essential for maintaining safety on Teton Pass.

What happens next

Drivers of vehicles weighing over 10,000 pounds must complete the Safe Pass education program starting October 1, 2026.

Further reading

For more on road safety standards for heavy vehicles, visit Trucks.

Source note: This article includes information reported by LocalNews8.

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Should drivers be required to complete safety education before navigating dangerous mountain roads?