Attention motorcyclists in Colorado- lane filtering is now legal. This change brings new freedoms but also new responsibilities. However, not everyone agrees on whether this law will make roads safer or more dangerous. Many drivers and motorcyclists alike are confused about how lane filtering will work in practice. Some studies suggest it reduces rear-end collisions, while others raise concerns about increased side-impact crashes. Because of these conflicting views, both riders and drivers must fully understand their rights and obligations under this new law.
At Denver Personal Injury Lawyers®, we’ve helped countless riders after serious motorcycle accidents. Our Denver motorcycle accident attorneys have seen firsthand how misunderstanding road laws can lead to unnecessary injuries and legal trouble. As lane filtering becomes legal in Colorado, we want to ensure that motorcyclists know how to ride safely, avoid citations, and protect their rights after an accident.
What Is Lane Filtering?
Lane filtering occurs when a motorcyclist rides between lanes stopped traffic. This maneuver helps reduce congestion and allows riders to avoid rear-end collisions in heavy traffic.
Other terms similar to lane filtering include:
- Lane-splitting (when a rider moves between vehicles traveling at speed)
- White-lining (riding on the painted line between lanes, whether traffic is moving or stopped)
Before this law, lane filtering was illegal in Colorado. Now, motorcyclists can legally practice it under specific conditions.
Is Lane Filtering the Same as Lane-Splitting?
No. Under the new law, Coloradan motorcyclists cannot travel between moving vehicles. It’s important to remember this difference to ensure no laws are broken. Furthermore, you should consider it in the context of what studies have to say about whether or not these practices are safe.
History of Lane-Splitting and Lane Filtering Laws in the U.S.
Lane filtering is legal in certain forms in Arizona, California, Hawaii, Montana, and Utah, but only California fully allows lane-splitting.
Lane-splitting has been a controversial topic across the country.
- California was the first state to legalize lane-splitting in 2016. Since then, studies have shown that it reduces rear-end motorcycle crashes and improves traffic flow. A study by UC Berkeley found that motorcyclists who lane-split safely were significantly less likely to suffer head injuries or fatalities than those who did not.
- Utah and Montana followed suit, legalizing lane filtering under certain conditions. Utah’s Department of Transportation reported a decrease in motorcycle crashes after passing the law. Conversely, Utah suffered a record-breaking number of deaths related to lane filtering which have caused them to reevaluate their motorcycle laws.
- Colorado lawmakers studied these states’ experiences before deciding to pass their own lane filtering law in 2025.
Understanding how other states have handled lane filtering helps riders in Colorado prepare for a safer and smoother transition.
The New Lane Filtering Law in Colorado
Colorado’s new lane filtering law includes specific rules to keep motorcyclists and other drivers safe. Here’s what riders need to know:
Where and When Is Lane Filtering Allowed?
- Only on multi-lane roads with speed limits of 45 mph or higher.
- Allowed when traffic is moving at 25 mph or less.
- Not permitted in residential neighborhoods or on roads with single lanes in each direction.
Speed Limitations for Lane Filtering
- Riders cannot exceed traffic speed by more than 15 mph.
- If traffic is moving at 25 mph, motorcycles cannot exceed 40 mph while lane filtering.
- The law prohibits lane filtering at speeds over 55 mph, even if traffic is slow.
Motorcyclist Responsibilities
- Riders must wear a DOT-approved helmet if under 18.
- Headlights must be on while lane filtering for visibility.
- Riders must signal before changing lanes.
Driver Responsibilities
- Drivers cannot intentionally block motorcycles from lane filtering.
- Opening a car door to block a motorcyclist is illegal and punishable by fines.
- Drivers should stay aware of motorcycles in mirrors and blind spots.
What Critics Say About Lane Filtering Laws
While many motorcyclists support lane filtering and lane filtering laws, critics have expressed concerns about safety. Some believe that weaving between vehicles increases the risk of side-swiping accidents or startling drivers who aren’t expecting a motorcycle to pass between lanes. Others argue that it could make it harder for emergency vehicles to navigate traffic.
Insurance companies and law enforcement agencies also have mixed reactions. Some claim that lane filtering could lead to more disputed accident claims, making it harder for injured riders to receive compensation. Additionally, some states that initially considered lane filtering later backed away due to concerns over enforcement and safety.
How Personal Injury Attorneys View Lane Filtering Cases
From a legal standpoint, lane filtering introduces new challenges when determining liability after an accident. A motorcyclist who follows the rules and lane-splits safely should not be blamed if a driver suddenly merges into their path. However, if a rider is speeding or weaving aggressively, they could share fault in an accident.
As Denver motorcycle accident attorneys, we anticipate that more cases will involve disputes over whether a motorcyclist was following lane filtering guidelines or riding recklessly. These cases will likely require extensive accident reconstruction, expert testimony, and legal arguments to establish who was at fault. This is why it’s essential for motorcyclists to document every accident carefully and seek legal guidance immediately.
How Insurance Companies View Lane Filtering
Insurance coverage for lane filtering accidents can be complex:
- Some policies may deny coverage if a motorcyclist was speeding while lane filtering.
- Riders may face higher premiums if insurers classify lane filtering as risky behavior.
- A Denver motorcycle accident attorney can help fight unfair claim denials.
Are There Benefits to Legalizing Lane Filtering?
Colorado lawmakers legalized lane filtering after studying its safety and traffic benefits. Therefore, this change makes sense from their perspective. Here are a few reasons why they chose to legalize lane filtering:
1. Reducing Traffic Congestion
- lane filtering allows motorcycles to move forward in stopped traffic.
- It reduces overall commute times for all drivers.
2. Lowering Accident Risk
- Many motorcycle accidents involve rear-end collisions. Lane filtering helps riders avoid being hit by distracted drivers.
- Studies show that lane filtering lowers the chance of serious injuries.
3. Environmental Benefits
- lane filtering reduces motorcycle idling time, lowering fuel consumption and emissions.
- Smoother traffic flow reduces air pollution in urban areas.
How Lane Filtering Affects Car Drivers
Many drivers wonder how this law affects them. While lane filtering primarily impacts motorcyclists, it also changes how car drivers should navigate traffic and interact with motorcycles on the road. Here’s what you need to know:
- Increased Awareness Is Essential
Lane filtering means motorcycles can legally move between lanes, often in slow-moving or stopped traffic. Drivers should remain aware of motorcycles approaching from behind, especially in congested conditions. Checking side mirrors frequently can help avoid sudden surprises. - Blind Spots Are More Important Than Ever
Because motorcycles may move between lanes at speeds higher than traffic flow, blind spots become a bigger safety concern. Before changing lanes, drivers must check over their shoulders and use mirrors to avoid cutting off a motorcyclist legally lane filtering. - Blocking Motorcycles Is Illegal
Some drivers may feel uncomfortable with motorcycles passing between lanes, but intentionally blocking a motorcyclist is now against the law. Swerving, tailgating, or opening a door to obstruct a motorcyclist can result in fines or even criminal charges. - Expect More Motorcycle Traffic
With lane filtering legal, more motorcyclists will take advantage of this new rule, especially in urban areas and congested highways. Drivers should remain calm and predictable, avoiding sudden lane changes or aggressive maneuvers. - How This Law Affects Insurance Claims
If a driver is involved in an accident with a lane filtering motorcyclist, insurance companies will review whether the motorcyclist was following state guidelines. If the driver was negligent—such as failing to signal or merging without checking—liability could fall on them. Understanding the new law helps drivers protect themselves from unnecessary claims.
By staying informed and adapting to the presence of lane filtering motorcyclists, drivers can help keep Colorado roads safer for everyone.
Additional Safety Gear for Lane Filtering Riders
To stay safe while lane filtering, consider investing in:
- Bright-colored helmets and jackets for visibility.
- Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) to prevent wheel lock-up.
- Protective gloves and riding suits to minimize injury risk.
Legal Penalties for Violating Lane Filtering Rules
Even though lane filtering is legal, unsafe riding can still result in traffic citations or liability in an accident.
Motorcyclists can face penalties for:
- Exceeding lane filtering speed limits
- Weaving unpredictably through traffic
- Failing to signal lane changes
If a motorcyclist causes an accident while lane filtering, they may be held partially responsible, affecting their ability to recover damages.
What to Do If You’re in a Lane Filtering Accident
If you’re involved in a lane filtering accident, follow these steps:
- Check for injuries and call 911.
- Document the accident with photos and witness statements.
- Get driver and insurance details from all parties involved.
- Avoid admitting fault or making statements to insurers without legal advice.
- Contact a Denver motorcycle accident attorney before negotiating with insurance companies.
Why Expert Guidance from a Denver Motorcycle Accident Attorney Matters
Lane filtering cases can be complex, especially when determining liability. A Denver motorcycle accident attorney can help:
- Prove that you were riding legally and safely.
- Hold negligent drivers accountable if they caused the accident.
- Negotiate with insurance companies to get full compensation for medical bills and damages.
Having an attorney on your side ensures that your rights are protected after a motorcycle accident.
Contact Denver Personal Injury Lawyers® for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been involved in a lane filtering accident, don’t navigate the legal system alone. Our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at Denver Personal Injury Lawyers® specialize in lane filtering cases and can fight for your compensation.
Call us today or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.
Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on recovery. With lane filtering now legal in Colorado, it’s more important than ever to understand your rights as a motorcyclist.
