Colorado Headlight Laws
Proper headlight use is essential for safe driving in Colorado, helping drivers see clearly and remain visible to others. State laws regulate when headlights must be turned on and which types of lighting are required. Failing to follow these rules can lead to liability in the case of accidents and other legal consequences.
In this article, we’ll explain Colorado’s headlight laws, discuss how headlight-related negligence can affect accident claims, and outline how our team of car accident lawyers can help you seek fair compensation if improper lighting played a role in your crash.
When Must Headlights Be Used in Colorado?
Colorado law mandates the use of headlights under specific conditions. According to C.R.S. § 42-4-204, drivers must activate their headlights:
- From sunset to sunrise: This period encompasses the hours of darkness when natural light is insufficient for clear visibility.
- When visibility is less than 1,000 feet: Situations such as rain, snow, fog, or smoke that reduce visibility to less than 1,000 feet necessitate the use of headlights.
- When windshield wipers are in use: If weather conditions require the continuous use of windshield wipers, headlights must be turned on to increase vehicle visibility.
Failure to comply with these requirements constitutes a Class A traffic infraction in Colorado, with penalties including fines, potential surcharges, and points added to your driving record.
What Is the Required Lighting Equipment for a Vehicle?
As outlined in C.R.S. § 42-4-205, Colorado’s standards for vehicle lighting include:
- Headlamps: All motor vehicles (except motorcycles) must have at least two headlamps, one on each side of the front. The center of each headlamp must be positioned between 24 and 54 inches above the ground.
- Tail lamps: Vehicles must have at least one tail lamp mounted on the rear, emitting a red light visible from 500 feet away. Additionally, a white light must illuminate the rear license plate, making it legible from 50 feet.
- Stop lamps: Vehicles are required to have stop lamps that emit a red or amber light, visible from at least 100 feet to the rear during normal sunlight. These lamps must activate upon application of the brake and may be incorporated with other rear lamps.
Can a Driver Receive a Citation for Failure to Dim High Beams?
Yes, drivers in Colorado can be cited for failing to properly dim their high beam headlights. According to C.R.S. § 42-4-217, the regulations are as follows:
- Approaching oncoming vehicles: When a vehicle is within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle, the driver must use the low beam setting to prevent a glare that could impair the vision of the other driver.
- Following another vehicle: When following another vehicle within 200 feet, drivers are required to switch to low beams. This rule doesn’t apply when overtaking and passing a vehicle.
Proper headlight use is essential for safe driving at night and in low-visibility conditions, and failing to dim high beams when required can lead to citations, fines, and liability in the case of accidents.
Are Certain Headlight Colors Illegal in Colorado?
To ensure uniformity and safety, Colorado law restricts the colors of headlights. As specified in C.R.S. § 42-4-215, the requirements include:
- White light: Headlights must emit white light. This standard ensures consistency and prevents confusion among drivers.
- Prohibited colors: Colors such as green are expressly forbidden for headlights. Using non-compliant colors can result in a Class B traffic infraction.
- Brightness limitations: Headlights shouldn’t be overly bright to the point of causing glare to other drivers. Colorado law states that no more than four lamps projecting a beam greater than 300 candlepower may be lit on the front of a vehicle at any time when on a highway.
Who Is Liable for an Accident Caused by Headlights?
Liability in accidents caused by improper headlight use depends on several factors, including whether a driver violated Colorado’s headlight laws and how their actions contributed to the crash.
Failing to use headlights in low-visibility conditions, using high beams improperly, or having malfunctioning lights create dangerous situations at night or in adverse weather. If a driver’s failure to comply with headlight regulations impairs visibility and contributes to a collision, they may be considered negligent and held responsible for damages.
However, Colorado follows a comparative fault system, which means liability is divided based on each party’s level of fault. If the other driver was speeding, distracted, or violating traffic laws, they might also share liability. A driver found less than 50% at fault can still recover damages, but their compensation will be reduced according to their percentage of fault.
Insurance companies investigate headlight-related crashes and may argue against full liability to lower settlements. At Boesen Law, we can gather crucial evidence, work with experts, and challenge insurer tactics to protect your rights. If improper lighting contributed to your accident, our team is ready to fight for rightful compensation on your behalf.
Contact Boesen Law for Legal Assistance
At Boesen Law, we have a proven track record of securing compensation for victims of car accidents across Colorado: our case results showcase the hundreds of millions we’ve recovered for our clients.
With over a decade of experience in personal injury law across the state, our goal is to recover maximum compensation on your behalf, ensuring you don’t have to shoulder the costs of someone else’s negligence. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
To get started, contact us today to schedule your consultation, and let us fight for the compensation you deserve. Plus, you pay no fees unless we win your case!
