Is Lane Splitting Legal in Colorado?

Colorado recently updated its motorcycle laws, permitting lane filtering in specific situations while keeping lane splitting illegal. These changes aim to improve safety, but accidents remain a major concern: according to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), there were 96,193 motor vehicle crashes in 2024. 

If you were injured in such an accident, you have legal options. A Colorado motorcycle accident lawyer from Boesen Law can help you navigate claims, challenge unfair fault assessments, and seek compensation for damages. In this article, we’ll cover Colorado’s updated laws regarding lane splitting and lane filtering and the steps you can take after an accident.

Lane Splitting vs. Lane Filtering in Colorado

Lane splitting and lane filtering are distinct practices with different legal implications in Colorado. Lane splitting, which involves a motorcycle moving between two rows of moving or stopped traffic traveling in the same direction, remains illegal statewide.

However, lane filtering, where a motorcyclist passes a vehicle in the same lane (but only when that vehicle and any traffic in adjacent lanes are at a complete stop), is now permitted as of August 7, 2024.

When Can Motorcyclists Legally Lane Filter?

According to the Colorado State Patrol’s lane filtering update, motorcyclists in Colorado are permitted to lane filter only when the following conditions are met:

• Traffic must be completely stopped: Lane filtering is only allowed when all vehicles are at a complete standstill, such as at a red light or in heavy traffic congestion.
• The lane must be wide enough for safe passage: There should be sufficient space for the motorcycle to pass safely between vehicles without risking contact.
• Motorcycles cannot exceed 15 mph while filtering: The motorcyclist must maintain a speed of 15 mph or less during the filtering maneuver.
• Riders must pass on the left and avoid the oncoming traffic lane: Passing should be done on the stopped vehicles’ left side, without entering lanes designated for oncoming traffic.

It’s important to note that according to Forbes, Colorado’s lane filtering law will be in effect until 2027, during which CDOT will collect safety data to determine its long-term viability.

Why Did Colorado Legalize Lane Filtering?

The new lane filtering law in Colorado was introduced to improve road safety and efficiency. One of its primary goals is to reduce rear-end collisions, which are a major risk for motorcyclists in heavy traffic and a common cause of severe injuries.

This law also helps prevent motorcycles from overheating during long periods of standstill traffic. Additionally, lane filtering is expected to ease congestion by allowing motorcycles to take up less space on the road, reducing overall traffic buildup.

How Does This Impact Colorado Motorists?

The legalization of lane filtering in Colorado introduces new dynamics that all road users must consider.

For Motorcyclists:

Lane filtering allows motorcyclists to avoid being rear-ended while stopped in traffic. Instead of remaining stationary between larger vehicles, riders can legally move forward and reduce their exposure to inattentive or aggressive drivers. 

This maneuver also helps keep traffic moving more smoothly, as motorcycles no longer contribute to lane congestion. However, motorcyclists must remain cautious of unpredictable drivers, as some may be unaware of the new law and react unexpectedly.

For Other Drivers:

Motorists need to be more alert when stopped in traffic, as motorcycles can now legally move between lanes. Checking mirrors and blind spots before opening doors or changing lanes becomes even more critical now to avoid accidental collisions with filtering riders.

Drivers who fail to signal or check their surroundings could unintentionally block a motorcyclist’s path and lead to side-swipe accidents. Awareness and patience from all road users will be essential in preventing these risks and ensuring a smoother transition to the new law.

Lane Splitting and Filtering Laws in Other States

• California: Lane splitting is fully legal, allowing motorcyclists to ride between lanes of both moving and stopped traffic.
• Utah, Arizona, Montana: These states permit lane filtering only when traffic is completely stopped or moving at very low speeds on roads with speed limits of 45 mph or less.
• Texas, Florida, Colorado: Both lane splitting and lane filtering remain illegal in Texas and Florida. In Colorado, however, the new law permits lane filtering as of August 7, 2024.

Safety Tips for Motorcyclists Using Lane Filtering

To navigate lane filtering safely, motorcyclists should adhere to the following guidelines:

• Always check for sudden lane changes by cars: Drivers may not expect motorcycles to filter through traffic, so watch for vehicles shifting lanes without signaling.
• Stay within the legal speed limit while filtering: Each state that allows lane filtering has specific speed restrictions—exceeding them increases accident risks and carries legal consequences.
• Use proper safety gear: Protective equipment, including helmets and protective clothing, can reduce the severity of injuries in case of an accident.
• Be cautious in low-visibility conditions: Rain, fog, and nighttime driving make it harder for drivers to see motorcycles and require extra caution.

What If You’re Injured in a Lane Filtering Accident?

If you were injured in a lane-filtering accident, Colorado’s comparative fault laws may influence the outcome of a personal injury claim. Under this rule, you can recover damages only if you’re less than 50% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault.

Proving liability in a motorcycle accident requires strong evidence, including traffic camera footage, witness statements, and accident reports. The attorneys at Boesen Law can investigate your case, challenge unfair fault assignments, and negotiate with insurers to seek the maximum compensation you deserve.

Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Our Expert Motorcycle Accident Lawyers are Ready to Help

Even with Colorado’s new lane filtering law, motorcycle and car accidents still happen. If you’ve been injured in a crash by a negligent driver, Boesen Law is here to help.

With decades of experience handling motorcycle accident claims, we fight to recover full compensation in Colorado. Plus, you pay nothing unless we win your case. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer and learn how we can protect your rights.