Certainly! Colorado has recently made changes to its motorcycle laws regarding lane filtering. On April 4th, 2024, Governor Jared Polis signed SB24-079, which authorizes lane filters for two-wheeled motorcycles in certain situations. Here are the key points:
- Authorization for Overtaking or Passing: Under this new law, a two-wheeled motorcycle is allowed to overtake or pass another motor vehicle in the same lane if the following conditions are met:
- The other motor vehicle is stopped or moving in the same direction as the motorcycle.
- The road has lanes wide enough to pass safely.
- The motorcycle is moving at 20 miles per hour or less (recently updated from 15 miles per hour).
- Conditions permit prudent operation of the motorcycle while overtaking or passing.
- Restrictions:
- Motorcycles must not overtake or pass on the right shoulder.
- If the highway has limited access, passing to the right of a vehicle in the farthest right-hand lane is not allowed.
- Passing in a lane of traffic moving in the opposite direction is prohibited.
- Repeal Date: The authorization to overtake or pass will be in effect until September 1, 2027, after which it will be repealed.
- Safety Data Collection: Before the repeal date, the Colorado Department of Transportation will collect safety data related to this law and issue a report to the General Assembly.
This change makes Colorado the fifth state to legalize lane filtering, allowing motorcycles to pass stopped cars in traffic and at stoplights. Motorcycle riders should be aware of these new regulations and exercise caution while lane filtering.
