Get ready for lane filtering law to enact on August 7

(COLORADO) — Colorado’s recently passed lane filtering bill will go into effect on Wednesday, August 7, and the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) is reminding motorists and riders how to practice it safely and with respect for one another.

Motorcyclists have the extra responsibility to ensure they possess the individual skills to safely and legally perform this maneuver. According to the new law, the rider of the motorcycle must not exceed 15 mph when filtering or passing another vehicle that is at a complete stop.

“Driving at low rates of speed, such as 15 miles per hour or less on a motorcycle, is more challenging and requires a higher level of skill,” stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Newer riders or folks that could brush up on this skill should seek hands-on training before implementing this new practice in real traffic situations.”

The law also requires the rider to assess each situation and determine whether the legal requirements are met for safe filtering. The rider should not pass if they can’t follow the law or perform the maneuver safely.

Riders of all experience levels can sign up for training at Colorado’s Motorcycle Operator Safety Program (MOST) . There are three programs that allow riders to gain additional experience in a safe and controlled setting: Basic Riders Course, Experienced Riders Course, and Three Wheel Course.

Other states, including Arizona, California, Hawaii, Montana, and Utah already have limited forms of lane filtering in effect, and California is the only state that allows lane splitting.

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