As drivers, we all share the same goal of getting to our destination safely and on time. However, certain traffic laws have been put in place to ensure this goal is accomplished without jeopardizing the safety of other drivers and passengers on the road. One such law is Colorado’s left lane passing law. If you’re a resident of Colorado or planning to visit the state, it’s essential to understand how this law works.

In this blog post, we’ll be taking a closer look at Colorado’s left lane passing law, where it applies, and the penalties associated with breaking it.

Colorado’s left lane passing law states that any driver traveling on a two or more lane road with a designated speed limit of 65 miles per hour or more must remain in the right lane unless overtaking and passing another vehicle. Additionally, slower-moving vehicles must remain in the right lane allowing other drivers to pass in the left lane. This law is put in place to minimize the risk of accidents and reduce congestion on the highways.

There are some exceptions to this law. For instance, a driver may use the left lane when completing a left turn or entering the highway from the left lane. Additionally, drivers may use the left lane when traffic volume is heavy, or the right lane exits to the right in less than half a mile.

It’s essential to note that violating this law can result in severe penalties in Colorado. A first offense could result in a minimum of $60 in fines and two points on the driver’s license. Repeat offenses can result in higher fines, the suspension of the driver’s license, and even jail time in some cases.

One common misconception about the left lane passing law is that it only applies to drivers going below the speed limit. However, this is not the case. The primary focus of this law is to maintain traffic flow, and all drivers are expected to follow it, even if they are driving at the speed limit or higher.

If you’re a new driver or new to the state, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with Colorado’s traffic laws. This will help you avoid accidents, save time, and money. Additionally, it’s crucial to always practice safe and defensive driving, such as indicating when changing lanes, checking mirrors and blind spots, and maintaining a safe following distance.

In summary, Colorado’s left lane passing law is an essential traffic law put in place to minimize the risk of accidents on the highways. Drivers must remain in the right lane unless overtaking and passing another vehicle, and slower-moving vehicles must keep to the right to allow other drivers to pass. Violating this law can result in penalties against your driver’s license, so it’s important to always follow it. As always, practicing safe and defensive driving is key to ensuring everyone’s safety on the road.

To learn more about this law click here: https://www.codot.gov/programs/research/assets/Brochures/leftlanebrochure.pdf