Motorcycle Safety: Colorado’s New Law On Lane “Filtering”

On April 4, 2024 the SB24-079 bill was signed to become law (effective in August 2024 as an amendment to C.R.S. § 42-4-1503) in Colorado. So what does this mean for Colorado motorists on 2-wheeled vehicles?

Beginning August 7, 2024 (2-wheeled) motorcyclists will be legally allowed to pass STOPPED vehicles by moving between lanes.

The rider may overtake or pass another vehicle in the same lane as long as:

• The other motor vehicle is STOPPED;
• The lanes of the road are wide enough to pass safely;
• The motorcycle is moving at 15 MPH or less; and 
• Conditions permit cautious operation of motorcycle while passing or overtaking.

The rider may NOT overtake or pass:

• On the right shoulder;
• To the right of a vehicle that is in the farthest right-hand lane if the highway is not limited access; and
• In a lane of traffic that is moving in the opposite direction.

As a motorcyclist, please do not forget to wear proper safety gear, such as:

• Helmet
• Face Protection/Face Shield
• Goggles
• Gloves
• Jacket/Pants/Riding Suit
• Rain Suit
• Hearing Protection

Any operator of a 4-wheeled motor vehicle should make sure to keep look-out for motorcyclists this summer, especially when changing lanes and turning.

_{Motorcycle Lane Filtering and Passing, S.B. 24-079 (2024). https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/2024a_079_signed.pdf}