On April 4, 2024 the SB24-079 bill was signed to become law (effective in August 2024 as an amendment to C.R.S. § 42-4-1503) in Colorado. So what does this mean for Colorado motorists on 2-wheeled vehicles?
Beginning August 7, 2024 (2-wheeled) motorcyclists will be legally allowed to pass STOPPED vehicles by moving between lanes.
The rider may overtake or pass another vehicle in the same lane as long as:
-The other motor vehicle is STOPPED;
-The lanes of the road are wide enough to pass safely;
-The motorcycle is moving at 15 MPH or less; and
-Conditions permit cautious operation of motorcycle while passing or overtaking.
The rider may NOT overtake or pass:
-On the right shoulder;
-To the right of a vehicle that is in the farthest right-hand lane if the highway is not limited access; and
-In a lane of traffic that is moving in the opposite direction.
As a motorcyclist, please do not forget to wear proper safety gear, such as:
- Helmet
- Face Protection/Face Shield
- Goggles
- Gloves
- Jacket/Pants/Riding Suit
- Rain Suit
- Hearing Protection
Any operator of a 4-wheeled motor vehicle should make sure to keep look-out for motorcyclists this summer, especially when changing lanes and turning.
Motorcycle Lane Filtering and Passing, S.B. 24-079 (2024). https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/2024a_079_signed.pdf
