Summer is motorcycle season in Colorado. Before you hit the road, it’s important to understand all relevant motorcycle laws for your safety and legal compliance. HSD Law specializes in motorcycle accident law in Fort Collins, CO. Our knowledgeable attorneys, some of whom are lifelong riders, can help you navigate motorcycle riding rules and protect your rights if you get into an accident.
Motorcycle Licensing Requirements
To legally operate a motorcycle in Colorado, you must possess a valid Colorado driver’s license and add a motorcycle endorsement. Here’s how to obtain this endorsement:
- Pass a motorcycle written exam: This evaluates your knowledge of motorcycle safety laws and riding rules.
- Complete a motorcycle safety course: The Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST) program is highly recommended. Successfully completing this course waives the skills test.
- Pass a motorcycle skills test: If you don’t take the MOST course, you’ll need to pass a skills test to demonstrate your ability to operate a motorcycle safely.
- Add the motorcycle endorsement: Once you pass the written exam and MOST course or skills test, you’ll need to purchase a new driver’s license with the motorcycle endorsement.
Helmet Laws
Colorado motorcycle helmet law requires any rider under 18 to wear a DOT-approved helmet. While adults are not required to wear helmets, it is highly recommended for safety. Eye protection, such as goggles, glasses, or a helmet with a visor, is also required for all riders and passengers. Other recommended safety gear includes padded gloves, jackets made of abrasion-resistant materials, riding pants with reinforced padding, and sturdy boots.
Lane Filtering in Colorado
Colorado is introducing a new law to allow lane filtering, a practice where motorcycles move between stopped cars under specific conditions. This is intended to reduce rear-end collisions and improve traffic flow during rush hour. It is important to note that lane filtering is not the same as lane splitting, or riding between lanes of moving traffic. This practice is still illegal in Colorado. In fact, California is the only state where lane splitting is permitted.
DUI Laws for Motorcyclists
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is dangerous and illegal. In Colorado, the same rules apply to drivers and motorcyclists. This means that riding with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) as low as 0.05% may result in DWAI charges, or driving while ability impaired. Then, a BAC of 0.08% or higher may lead to a DUI (driving under the influence). In short, riding sober is the law, no matter what you drive.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
Being involved in a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming. Whether you or the other driver was at fault, it’s important to prioritize your safety and safeguard your rights. Follow this step-by-step guide after an accident:
- Ensure safety: If possible, move your motorcycle to a safe location away from traffic. Check yourself and anyone else involved in the accident for injuries.
- Call 911: Report the accident immediately by calling the police. Provide clear information about your location and any injuries. Request medical assistance if needed, even for minor injuries.
- Exchange information: Collect the names, contact details, and insurance information from all parties involved. Also, note vehicle descriptions, including make, model, and license plate numbers. This information is important for insurance claims and legal processes.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle positions, property damage, and road conditions. Record the time, weather, and any other relevant details that may help you build a case.
- Seek medical attention: Visit a healthcare provider for a medical evaluation, even if you feel fine. Prompt medical attention can rule out hidden injuries and prevent minor issues from becoming major health concerns. Follow up with your doctor for any symptoms that arise later.
- File a claim: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident and begin the claims process. Provide all necessary documentation, including photos, police reports, and medical records.
- Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer: If the insurance company makes a low settlement offer, seek legal advice to understand your rights and options. An experienced motorcycle accident law firm can help you receive fair compensation for repairs, medical expenses, and other losses.
How HSD Law Can Help
At HSD Law, we are intimately familiar with the legal requirements for motorcyclists. We have years of experience assisting clients in Northern Colorado who have been injured in motorcycle accidents. Let us help you recover the compensation you deserve on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. To discuss your options and learn how we can help, schedule a free consultation at our motorcycle accident law firm in Fort Collins today.