Understanding Colorado’s Lane Filtering Law for Motorcyclists

Lane filtering, or the ability of motorcyclists to move between stopped traffic, has been a widely debated topic in recent years. As of August 2024, Colorado has changed its laws around lane filtering, raising questions about its safety and what freedoms motorcyclists have on the road. As a motorcyclist, it is essential to understand these new laws and how they can affect your rights while riding.

At Mintz Law Firm, we understand how complex motorcycle accident cases can be, especially when laws like lane filtering come into play. With decades of experience representing motorcyclists across Colorado, we’re here to help you navigate the legal landscape and protect your rights after an accident.

What Are Colorado’s Lane Filtering Laws?

Lane filtering occurs when a motorcyclist passes stopped traffic, moving in the same direction to reach the front of the line. It is commonly used to ease traffic congestion and reduce the risk of a motorcyclist being caught between vehicles during a potential collision. As of August 2024, lane filtering is legal in Colorado under a specific set of guidelines. These conditions include the following:

• All traffic going in the same direction must be stopped before passing.
• The motorcyclists must pass on the left and can only do so if there is enough room for both the motorcyclist and vehicle without entering oncoming traffic.
• The motorcyclist must stay under 15 mph while lane filtering and can only pass if it is safe to do so.

While lane filtering is now legal in Colorado, it is not a requirement and should only be done when traffic conditions are safe. If you are in a motorcycle accident while you are lane filtering, it is vital you contact a personal injury lawyer to guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.

What Is the Difference Between Lane Filtering and Lane Splitting?

While you might hear the two terms used interchangeably, lane filtering and lane splitting are two distinct types of traffic maneuvers. Lane filtering is different from lane splitting based on one specific rule: the speed of the traffic.

Lane splitting allows motorcyclists to ride between moving traffic at higher speeds. It is currently illegal in 49 states, including Colorado. This is because lane splitting is considered dangerous, as there is a greater risk of accidents while moving at higher speeds. 

While lane filtering is legal in Colorado, lane splitting can result in a fine and points on your license. A personal injury lawyer can help you understand the laws surrounding motorcycle use and guide you on your rights after an accident. 

What Are the Safety Implications of Lane Filtering?

Lane filtering is now legal in five states, including Colorado. The rationale behind lane filtering is to reduce traffic congestion and prevent rear-end accidents involving motorcycles. Because of their exposed nature, motorcyclists are at an increased risk of injury during rear-end collisions. 

It is both the responsibility of the motorcyclist to proceed with caution and only practice lane filtering when it is safe to do so, as well as vehicle drivers to share the road and maintain their duty of care to motorcyclists and other drivers. If you have been injured while practicing safe lane filtering, please contact an attorney at Mintz Law Firm to assist you in your personal injury case and help you seek the damages you deserve. 

As lane filtering is a relatively new law, there is little to no data to confirm whether it actually reduces rear-end motorcycle accidents. However, the Colorado Department of Transportation is conducting a study on the effects of lane filtering in the state that will be released in 2027. 

How Can Mintz Law Help If You Have Been Involved in a Motorcycle Accident?

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, especially one involving lane filtering, the legal process can be complex. At Mintz Law Firm, we have extensive experience representing motorcyclists in Colorado and understand the unique challenges they face. Our team is committed to ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of insurance claims, legal proceedings, and negotiations with other parties involved.

Whether your accident was the result of lane filtering or another driver’s negligence, Mintz Law Firm has the expertise to build a strong case on your behalf, and we’ll guide you through each step of the process. Call us today at (303) 462-2999 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.