Colorado Joins States Allowing Motorcycle Lane Filtering
On April 4, 2024, Colorado Governor Jared Polis enacted SB24-079, making Colorado the fifth state to allow motorcycle lane filtering. This law permits motorcyclists to navigate between lanes of stopped vehicles at traffic lights and in congested traffic.
Bipartisan Support Facilitates Passage
The legislation received broad bipartisan backing in both the Colorado House and Senate, underscoring a collective commitment to motorcyclist safety and traffic flow improvement. The law aligns Colorado with California, Utah, Montana, and Arizona, all of which have similar regulations.
Details of the New Legislation
Starting August 7, 2024, the new law enables motorcyclists to pass stopped vehicles within the same lane. However, they must maintain a speed of 15 miles per hour or less while filtering. This practice is only permissible on roads with sufficiently wide lanes to ensure safe passage. The stipulation also mandates prudent motorcycle operation during these maneuvers to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of all road users.
Impact on Motorcyclist Safety
According to AMA Central States Representative Nick Sands, this law represents a substantial advancement for the safety of motorcyclists. By allowing them to filter through stopped traffic, motorcyclists can avoid potentially hazardous situations involving inattentive or distracted drivers.
Ongoing Research and Monitoring
Over the next three years, the Colorado Department of Transportation will gather data regarding the safety impacts of lane filtering. They are tasked with reporting their findings to the Colorado General Assembly, ensuring that the effects of the legislation are well understood and that necessary adjustments can be made to enhance road safety further.
This article was co-written using AI and was then heavily edited and optimized by our editorial team.
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I'd love to see this in Maryland. It's a bit doubtful only because it's not generally understood as a benefit to car drivers by reducing traffic. Studies long ago reinforced this position and is why California allowed it first. That and the large presence of motorcycle riders in the state compared to other states.
It also creates lawlessness. It may not be a lot, but it does. I witnessed it this morning on the way to work. I am in a state that it is illegal but there are a few riders that don't follow the law. If I continue to see this black bike going between cars, I will call the police to make them aware.