Colorado Passenger and Curfew Laws for Minor Drivers
Nearly all teens look forward to the day they can finally get their driver’s license. Something about hopping behind the wheel of a car gives you a sense of freedom and adulthood. However, teen drivers are inexperienced and present some of the highest risks of any driver on the road.
In an effort to promote safety and avoid car accidents, Colorado enacted curfew and passenger requirements that apply to teen drivers. By limiting distractions and keeping teens off the road during the most dangerous times, these laws help to keep everyone safer. If you or your teen just got their license, dive into all the details of the passenger and curfew laws below.
What Are the Colorado Curfew Laws for Minor Drivers?
The curfew laws are one part of the teen driving restrictions in Colorado. These laws apply to most drivers under the age of 18. For the first year of having a license, a teen driver must stay off the road between midnight and 5:00 AM. However, under a few exceptions, a teen can drive during these hours if:
- They are accompanied by an instructor, parent, or legal guardian
- They are driving to or from work or school (and have the required paperwork)
- There is a medical emergency
- The teen is an emancipated minor
Additionally, you should know that curfew laws can vary by county or municipality. Some local authorities may have more strict curfew requirements, so be sure to check your local laws for details.
How Many Passengers Can a Teen Driver Have?
In addition to the curfew law, Colorado also has strict passenger restrictions related to teen drivers. Limiting passengers can help avoid distractions and keep the teen-focused on the road. Many teen drivers wonder, “When can you drive with friends?” The passenger limitations are as follows:
- For the first six months of holding a license, no passengers under 21 unless a parent or another driver over 21 is in the vehicle
- For the next six months, one passenger under the age of 21 is allowed in the vehicle
- No more than one passenger in the front seat at any time
The only exception to the passenger rule is a medical emergency. As you might imagine, all teen drivers and passengers must wear seat belts at all times. Everyone must have their own seat belt as well because the law does not allow for the sharing of seat belts.
Additional Restrictions on Teen Drivers
Distracted driving accidents are some of the most common types of accidents across Colorado and the nation. Cell phones have become one of the main distractions for drivers. For this reason, teen drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using their cell phones while driving.
If a teen is caught using a cell phone behind the wheel, they risk some severe consequences. In some cases, they could end up losing their license for a violation of this rule. The only exception that applies is an instance where the teen needs to make an emergency call to the police or fire department.
Colorado already has strict DUI laws in place for adult drivers, and they have a zero-tolerance policy for teen drivers. Since the legal age for purchasing or consuming alcohol is 21, teen drivers should never have any detectable alcohol in their system. Teens should never even have one drink, especially if they are driving.
If a teen driver is suspected of driving under the influence, they may be prosecuted if they have any detectable amount of alcohol on their breath. The penalties for a violation of this rule are substantial. They could face losing their license, large fines, and even jail time if they were involved in an accident that caused injuries or wrongful death.
Penalties for Violating Curfew and Passenger Laws
As mentioned above, violating the curfew and passenger rules can have some severe consequences. Your teen driver could face fines, and they might even lose their license. Remind your teen of the importance of following these rules in order to keep themselves and others safe. Many of the restrictions are lifted after a year, and that time will go by very quickly.
Contact our Denver Car Accident Attorneys at Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers at (720) 613 9706
For more information, please contact the Denver car accident lawyers at Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation with a personal injury lawyer.
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