If you've ever taken a road trip through the Rocky Mountains, or driven to pretty much any ski resort here, you've probably seen a number of steep, gravel roads that run off of the highway, known as 'runaway truck ramps.' But, if you're like me, you've probably never actually seen one in use (fortunately). 

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I-70 has several runaway truck ramps, and it's most likely pretty rare that they ever get used, but in the event one needs to be, it's a really really good thing they are there. My knowledge of semi trucks and 18 wheelers is like, little to none, but I do know that on steep hills they sometimes can lose their brakes which, yes, is absolutely terrifying.

Should that happen, that's what the ramps are for. Daniel Thompson and @xander_ricker were on I-70 in Colorado when they saw a truck lose its brakes in front of them, veering onto the ramp. While you can see how the steep uphill grade and gravel are able to slow the truck, it then starts going back downhill — with no brakes still.

(Video with sound on has NSFW language.)

Personally, I've always wondered how exactly these ramps work, if trucks do wind up going down them backwards (seriously, if anyone can answer that for me in the comments, that would be cool). In this case, truck may've tipped over sideways.

Being a truck driver is a difficult (and dangerous) job, so as @i70things posted in the video's caption, if you find yourself traveling through the mountains, 'One thing you can take away from this is when coming down from the tunnel in either direction be aware of what’s in front and behind you especially if you’re in the right lane.'

White Knuckle Your Way Down Colorado's Most Dangerous Roads

Slivers of asphalt cling to mountainsides with barely enough room for a subcompact car, let alone the monster RVs peppering the roadways. Blind corners leave even the most experienced drivers wondering what awaits around the bend. Let's not forget the thousand-foot drops with nothing between safety and impending doom but a thin slice of gravel -- talk about white knuckles.

If you're brave enough to "risk your life" for beautiful views, you won't be disappointed.

How many of these dangerous roads have you traveled in Colorado?

Highest Paved Road in the U.S. is Mount Evans Scenic Byway

Colorado is a beautiful state with so many things to do and see. Everyone knows about our sports teams, tremendous restaurants, and outdoor activities. But did you know that Colorado is home to the highest paved road in the United States? It's true. Mount Evans Scenic Byway hits an elevation of 14,130 feet according to Wikipedia.

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