Motorcycle Laws in Colorado
The striking scenery in and around Denver, Colorado, makes it an appealing place for motorcycle enthusiasts. Since riding comes with inherent risks, however, it’s important to fully understand the motorcycle laws in Colorado before you hit the road.
While it’s always wise to pay attention to safety, even the most careful riders can still be involved in an accident. If you’ve been hurt in a crash and need the services of a skilled Denver motorcycle accident lawyer, Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers is the clear choice. Call us today at (720) 613 9706 for a free consultation.
How Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Motorcycle Accident in Denver, CO
Motorcycle accident claims come with unique challenges. Many insurance companies and courts hold an unfair bias against motorcyclists. Because they see the mere act of riding a motorcycle as “reckless,” they may hesitate to give you the compensation you deserve.
As an injured motorcyclist, you need to work with an experienced Denver motorcycle accident attorney, not just one who focuses on car accidents in general.
Here are a few reasons to choose Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers:
- We’ve recovered tens of millions of dollars for our clients
- We secured Colorado’s largest personal injury verdict of the year in 2018 and 2021
- We treat each client like an individual and build their case accordingly
- Two of our attorneys have served on the board of the American Association of Justice
- We’re skilled negotiators, but we won’t hesitate to fight for you in court
- You can contact us 24/7
We proudly serve clients in Denver, Colorado. If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident through no fault of your own, we want to hear from you. Contact us to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation today with a Denver motorcycle accident attorney.
What Are Colorado’s Main Motorcycle Laws?
When traveling on two wheels, you don’t have the same kind of protection as you would in a car or other enclosed vehicle. Given the sudden and unpredictable nature of traffic accidents, it’s vital to understand some of the key motorcycle laws in the Centennial State:
You Must Have A Motorcycle Endorsement On Your License
In Colorado, you must have an “M” endorsement on your driver’s license to operate a motorcycle legally.
There are two ways to obtain this endorsement. The most straightforward is to take and pass a Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST) course. Alternatively, you may pass a written exam, obtain an instructional permit, and take a road test.
Riders Under 18 Must Wear Helmets
Each state is free to set its own laws regarding the use of motorcycle helmets. In Colorado, anyone under 18 who operates a motorcycle or is a passenger on one must wear a helmet. Adults aren’t required to wear helmets, but they must have eye protection.
However, even as an adult, wearing a helmet is strongly advised. It also makes things easier — most riders simply use their helmet’s face shield as the legally required eye protection.
Lane Splitting Is Illegal
The term “lane splitting” refers to maneuvering a motorcycle between two lanes of moving traffic. It’s a controversial practice, and some riders believe it keeps motorcyclists safer. However, Colorado is one of many states that outlaw it.
In 2024, Colorado passed a law allowing lane filtering, which involves riding between lanes of stopped traffic. Motorcyclists are permitted to do this if they don’t exceed 15 miles per hour, but they must stop if the traffic starts moving again.
You May Share a Lane With Another Rider
In Colorado, it’s illegal for you to ride alongside a car in the same traffic lane. You may ride alongside another motorcyclist, but riding more than two abreast in the same lane is illegal.
Motorcyclists May Run “Dead” Red Lights
Some automated traffic signals aren’t sensitive enough to pick up the weight of a motorcycle. That means you could potentially be stuck waiting at a red light until a larger vehicle comes along. Luckily, there are some circumstances in Colorado where you may pass through these lights.
Specifically, if the light has cycled without turning green (and it clearly does not recognize the motorcycle), you may treat it as a flashing yellow and proceed with caution.
Contact Our Denver Motorcycle Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need a law firm that will stand behind you and firmly advocate for you to receive the compensation you deserve. Our team has earned a reputation for aggressive litigation. When you work with us, the at-fault party and their legal representative may be more inclined to settle to avoid paying a significant verdict.
The capable team at Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers has helped countless injured motorcyclists in Denver, and we’re confident we can help you, too. Reach out today to set up your initial consultation.
