As the weather warms up across Colorado, motorcycles are back on the road and motorcycle safety is more important than ever.
From daily commuters to weekend riders heading into the mountains, you’ll start to see more motorcycles sharing the road, especially on busy corridors like I-25.
In a recent blog, we covered the new toll system and traffic changes along I-25. With those adjustments, it’s even more important for drivers to stay alert; not just for other vehicles, but for motorcyclists who can be harder to see and more vulnerable in an accident.
Why Motorcycle Safety Matters
Motorcycles don’t offer the same level of protection as a car or truck.
That means:
- Riders are more exposed in a crash
- Even minor collisions can lead to serious injuries
- Visibility is often a challenge, especially in traffic
For drivers, this makes awareness critical. A quick glance or missed blind spot check can have serious consequences.
Common Situations Where Motorcycle Accidents Happen
Many motorcycle accidents happen in everyday driving situations, such as:
- Changing lanes without checking blind spots
- Turning left in front of an oncoming motorcycle
- Following too closely
- Not noticing a motorcycle at an intersection
These aren’t always reckless decisions; they’re often moments where a driver simply didn’t see the rider.
Why Motorcycle Safety Matters Even More Right Now
Spring and summer bring a noticeable increase in motorcycle traffic across Colorado.
At the same time:
- Roads are busier with travel, construction, and commuting
- Drivers are adjusting to seasonal traffic changes
- New road systems (like the I-25 Express Lanes) require more attention
All of this creates an environment where distractions (or even small lapses in attention) can increase the risk of an accident.
Motorcycle Lane Filtering Is Now Legal in Colorado
In Colorado, a newer law allows what’s known as motorcycle lane filtering—meaning riders may move between lanes of slow or stopped traffic under certain conditions.
This is something drivers will likely start noticing more often.
Lane filtering has been common in states like California for years, where it’s used to help motorcyclists avoid sitting in traffic and reduce exposure to vehicle exhaust. Now that it’s permitted in Colorado, it adds another layer of awareness for drivers.
For drivers, this means:
- A motorcycle may approach between lanes, especially in traffic
- Riders may not always be directly behind or in front of you
- Checking mirrors and blind spots becomes even more important before changing lanes
Even if you don’t expect a motorcycle to be there, it’s worth taking an extra second to look.
Why This Can Increase the Risk of Serious Injury
Unlike some states, Colorado does not require all motorcyclists to wear helmets.
That means a rider who is lane filtering may not have the same level of protection as they would in states with stricter helmet laws.
If a driver changes lanes and collides with a motorcyclist, the outcome can be far more severe, especially if the rider is not wearing a helmet.
This makes awareness even more important. Small driving habits, like signaling early and double-checking your surroundings, can help prevent situations where injuries could be life-altering.
Simple Ways to Drive More Safely Around Motorcycles
A few small habits can make a big difference:
- Always use your turn signal before changing lanes, especially on highways
- Take a second look before merging, even if the lane appears clear
- Be aware that motorcycles may be traveling between lanes in slower traffic
- Put your phone away and do not use it until you get to your destination
- Check your blind spots twice before changing lanes
- Give motorcycles extra space, especially at higher speeds
- Watch carefully at intersections, particularly when turning left
- Use your signals early so riders can anticipate your movements
- Stay focused and avoid distractions behind the wheel
Motorcycles may be smaller, but they have the same right to the road and often need a little extra awareness from drivers to stay safe.
Learn More from CDOT
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) provides guidance on how drivers and motorcyclists can safely share the road, including information on motorcycle lane filtering.
You can view their resource here:
https://www.codot.gov/safety/motorcycle/assets/motorycycle-lane-filtering-stakeholder-one-pager.pdf
A Reminder During Distracted Driving Awareness Month
April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a reminder that where your attention goes behind the wheel matters.
Even a few seconds of distraction can mean:
- Missing a motorcycle in your blind spot
- Failing to see a rider approaching an intersection
- Reacting too late to avoid a collision
As highlighted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of accidents nationwide.
The safest choice is simple: stay focused, stay alert, and stay aware of everyone on the road.
When an Accident Involves a Motorcycle
Accidents involving motorcycles can be more complex than typical car accidents. Injuries are often more severe, and determining fault may depend on details like visibility, right of way, and driver awareness.
If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident with a motorcycle, it’s important to understand your options and what steps to take next.
LS Injury Law works with individuals and families across Colorado to help them navigate these situations with clarity and support. Whether you’re dealing with an accident or simply have questions, our team is here to help you make sense of what comes next. Reach out to talk with the LS Injury Law team about your case by calling 303-221-0039 or filling out a form on our website.