2020 Colorado Revised Statutes
Title 42 - Vehicles And Traffic
Article 4. Regulation of Vehicles and Traffic

• Section 42-4-101. Short title.
• Section 42-4-102. Legislative declaration.
• Section 42-4-103. Scope and effect of article - exceptions to provisions.
• Section 42-4-104. Adoption of traffic control manual.
• Section 42-4-105. Local traffic control devices.
• Section 42-4-106. Who may restrict right to use highways - definitions - rules - repeal.
• Section 42-4-107. Obedience to police officers.
• Section 42-4-108. Public officers to obey provisions - exceptions for emergency vehicles.
• Section 42-4-109. Low-power scooters, animals, skis, skates, and toy vehicles on highways.
• Section 42-4-109.5. Low-speed electric vehicles.
• Section 42-4-109.6. Class B low-speed electric vehicles - effective date - rules.
• Section 42-4-110. Provisions uniform throughout state - legislative declaration.
• Section 42-4-110.5. Automated vehicle identification systems - definition.
• Section 42-4-111. Powers of local authorities.
• Section 42-4-112. Noninterference with the rights of owners of realty.
• Section 42-4-113. Appropriations for administration of article.
• Section 42-4-114. Removal of traffic hazards.
• Section 42-4-115. Information on traffic law enforcement - collection - profiling - annual report - repeal. (Repealed)
• Section 42-4-116. Restrictions for minor drivers - definitions.
• Section 42-4-117. Personal mobility devices.
• Section 42-4-118. Establishment of wildlife crossing zones - report.

Cross references: For the penalty for class A and class B traffic infractions, see § 42-41701 (3)(a)(I).

• Section 42-4-201. Obstruction of view or driving mechanism - hazardous situation.
• Section 42-4-202. Unsafe vehicles - penalty - identification plates.
• Section 42-4-203. Unsafe vehicles - spot inspections.
• Section 42-4-204. When lighted lamps are required.
• Section 42-4-205. Head lamps on motor vehicles.
• Section 42-4-206. Tail lamps and reflectors.
• Section 42-4-207. Clearance and identification.
• Section 42-4-208. Stop lamps and turn signals.
• Section 42-4-209. Lamp or flag on projecting load.
• Section 42-4-210. Lamps on parked vehicles.
• Section 42-4-211. Lamps on farm equipment and other vehicles and equipment.
• Section 42-4-212. Spot lamps and auxiliary lamps.
• Section 42-4-213. Audible and visual signals on emergency vehicles.
• Section 42-4-214. Visual signals on service vehicles - rules - definition.
• Section 42-4-215. Signal lamps and devices - additional lighting equipment.
• Section 42-4-215.5. Signal lamps and devices - street rod vehicles and custom motor vehicles. (Repealed)
• Section 42-4-216. Multiple-beam road lights.
• Section 42-4-217. Use of multiple-beam lights.
• Section 42-4-218. Single-beam road-lighting equipment.
• Section 42-4-219. Number of lamps permitted.
• Section 42-4-220. Low-power scooters - lighting equipment - department control - use and operation.
• Section 42-4-221. Bicycle, electric scooter, and personal mobility device equipment.
• Section 42-4-222. Volunteer firefighters - volunteer ambulance attendants - special lights and alarm systems.
• Section 42-4-223. Brakes.
• Section 42-4-224. Horns or warning devices - definition.
• Section 42-4-225. Mufflers - prevention of noise.
• Section 42-4-226. Mirrors - exterior placements.
• Section 42-4-227. Windows unobstructed - certain materials prohibited - windshield wiper requirements.
• Section 42-4-228. Restrictions on tire equipment.
• Section 42-4-229. Safety glazing material in motor vehicles.
• Section 42-4-230. Emergency lighting equipment - who must carry.
• Section 42-4-231. Parking lights.
• Section 42-4-232. Minimum safety standards for motorcycles and low-power scooters.
• Section 42-4-233. Alteration of suspension system.
• Section 42-4-234. Slow-moving vehicles - display of emblem.
• Section 42-4-235. Minimum standards for commercial vehicles - motor carrier safety fund created - definitions - rules.
• Section 42-4-236. Child restraint systems required - definitions - exemptions.
• Section 42-4-237. Safety belt systems - mandatory use - exemptions - penalty.
• Section 42-4-238. Blue and red lights - illegal use or possession.
• Section 42-4-239. Misuse of a wireless telephone - definitions - penalty - preemption.
• Section 42-4-240. Low-speed electric vehicle equipment requirements.
• Section 42-4-241. Unlawful removal of tow-truck signage - unlawful usage of tow-truck signage.
• Section 42-4-242. Automated driving systems - safe harbor.

• Section 42-4-301. Legislative declarations - enactment of enhanced emissions program not waiver of state right to challenge authority to require specific loaded mode transient dynamometer technology in automobile emissions testing.
• Section 42-4-302. Commencement of basic emissions program - authority of commission.
• Section 42-4-303. Sunrise review of registration of repair facilities. (Repealed)
• Section 42-4-304. Definitions relating to motor vehicle inspection and readjustment program.
• Section 42-4-305. Powers and duties of executive director - automobile inspection and readjustment program - basic emissions program - enhanced emissions program - clean screen program - rules.
• Section 42-4-306. Powers and duties of commission - automobile inspection and readjustment program - basic emissions program - enhanced emissions program - clean screen program.
• Section 42-4-307. Powers and duties of the department of public health and environment division of administration - automobile inspection and readjustment program - basic emissions program - enhanced emissions program - clean screen program.
• Section 42-4-307.5. Clean screen authority - enterprise - revenue bonds.
• Section 42-4-307.7. Vehicle emissions testing - remote sensing.
• Section 42-4-308. Inspection and readjustment stations - inspection-only facilities - fleet inspection stations - motor vehicle dealer test facilities - contractor - emissions inspectors emissions mechanics - requirements.
• Section 42-4-309. Vehicle fleet owners - motor vehicle dealers - authority to conduct inspections - fleet inspection stations - motor vehicle dealer test facilities - contracts with licensed inspection-only entities.
• Section 42-4-310. Periodic emissions control inspection required.
• Section 42-4-311. Operation of inspection and readjustment stations - inspection-only facilities - fleet inspection stations - motor vehicle dealer test facilities - enhanced inspection centers.
• Section 42-4-312. Improper representation as emissions inspection and readjustment station - inspection-only facility - fleet inspection station - motor vehicle dealer test facility enhanced inspection center.
• Section 42-4-313. Penalties.
• Section 42-4-314. Automobile emissions control systems - tampering - operation of vehicle.
• Section 42-4-315. Warranties.
• Section 42-4-316. AIR program - demonstration of compliance with ambient air quality standards and transportation conformity.
• Section 42-4-316.5. Termination of vehicle emissions testing program.
• Section 42-4-317. Purchase or lease of new motor vehicles by state agencies - clean-burning alternative fuels - definitions. (Repealed)

• Section 42-4-401. Definitions.
• Section 42-4-402. Administration of inspection program.
• Section 42-4-403. Powers and duties of the commission.
• Section 42-4-404. Powers and duties of the executive director of the department of public health and environment.
• Section 42-4-405. Powers and duties of executive director.
• Section 42-4-406. Requirement of certification of emissions control for registration - testing for diesel smoke opacity compliance.
• Section 42-4-407. Requirements for a diesel emission-opacity inspection - licensure as diesel emissions inspection station - licensure as emissions inspector.
• Section 42-4-408. Operation of diesel inspection station.
• Section 42-4-409. Improper representation of a diesel inspection station.
• Section 42-4-410. Inclusion in the diesel inspection program.
• Section 42-4-411. Applicability of this part to heavy-duty diesel fleets of nine or more.
• Section 42-4-412. Air pollution violations.
• Section 42-4-413. Visible emissions from diesel-powered motor vehicles unlawful - penalty.
• Section 42-4-414. Heavy-duty diesel fleet inspection and maintenance program - penalty rules.

Cross references: For penalties for class A and class B traffic infractions, see § 42-41701 (3)(a)(I).

• Section 42-4-501. Size and weight violations - penalty.
• Section 42-4-502. Width of vehicles.
• Section 42-4-503. Projecting loads on passenger vehicles.
• Section 42-4-504. Height and length of vehicles.
• Section 42-4-505. Longer vehicle combinations - rules.
• Section 42-4-506. Trailers and towed vehicles.
• Section 42-4-507. Wheel and axle loads.
• Section 42-4-508. Gross weight of vehicles and loads - definition.
• Section 42-4-509. Vehicles weighed - excess removed.
• Section 42-4-510. Permits for excess size and weight and for manufactured homes - rules definition.
• Section 42-4-511. Permit standards - state and local.
• Section 42-4-511.2. Authority for cooperative agreements with regional states on excess size or weight vehicles - regulations.
• Section 42-4-512. Liability for damage to highway.

Cross references: For penalties for class A and class B traffic infractions, see § 42-41701 (3)(a)(I).

• Section 42-4-601. Department to sign highways, where.
• Section 42-4-602. Local traffic control devices.
• Section 42-4-603. Obedience to official traffic control devices.
• Section 42-4-604. Traffic control signal legend.
• Section 42-4-605. Flashing signals.
• Section 42-4-606. Display of unauthorized signs or devices.
• Section 42-4-607. Interference with official devices.
• Section 42-4-608. Signals by hand or signal device.
• Section 42-4-609. Method of giving hand and arm signals.
• Section 42-4-610. Unauthorized insignia.
• Section 42-4-611. Paraplegic persons or persons with disabilities - distress flag.
• Section 42-4-612. When signals are inoperative or malfunctioning.
• Section 42-4-613. Failure to pay toll established by regional transportation authority.
• Section 42-4-614. Designation of highway maintenance, repair, or construction zones - signs - increase in penalties for speeding violations.
• Section 42-4-615. School zones - increase in penalties for moving traffic violations.
• Section 42-4-616. Wildlife crossing zones - increase in penalties for moving traffic violations.

Cross references: For penalties for class A and class B traffic infractions, see § 42-41701 (3)(a)(I).

• Section 42-4-701. Vehicles approaching or entering intersection.
• Section 42-4-702. Vehicle turning left.
• Section 42-4-703. Entering through highway - stop or yield intersection.
• Section 42-4-704. Vehicle entering roadway.
• Section 42-4-705. Operation of vehicle approached by emergency vehicle - operation of vehicle approaching stationary emergency vehicle, stationary towing carrier vehicle, or stationary public utility service vehicle.
• Section 42-4-706. Obedience to railroad signal.
• Section 42-4-707. Certain vehicles must stop at railroad grade crossings.
• Section 42-4-708. Moving heavy equipment at railroad grade crossing.
• Section 42-4-709. Stop when traffic obstructed.
• Section 42-4-710. Emerging from or entering alley, driveway, or building.
• Section 42-4-711. Driving on mountain highways.
• Section 42-4-712. Driving in highway work area.
• Section 42-4-713. Yielding right-of-way to transit buses - definitions - penalty.
• Section 42-4-714. Bicyclist or other authorized user in bicycle lane.

Cross references: For penalties for class A and class B traffic infractions, see § 42-41701 (3)(a)(I).

• Section 42-4-801. Pedestrian obedience to traffic control devices and traffic regulations.
• Section 42-4-802. Pedestrians' right-of-way in crosswalks.
• Section 42-4-803. Crossing at other than crosswalks.
• Section 42-4-804. Pedestrian to use right half of crosswalk. (Repealed)
• Section 42-4-805. Pedestrians walking or traveling in a wheelchair on highways.
• Section 42-4-806. Driving through safety zone prohibited.
• Section 42-4-807. Drivers to exercise due care.
• Section 42-4-808. Drivers and pedestrians, other than persons in wheelchairs, to yield to individuals with disabilities.

Cross references: For penalties for class A traffic infractions, see § 42-4-1701 (3)(a)(I).

• Section 42-4-901. Required position and method of turning.
• Section 42-4-902. Limitations on turning around.
• Section 42-4-903. Turning movements and required signals.

Cross references: For penalties for class A traffic infractions, see § 42-4-1701 (3)(a)(I).

• Section 42-4-1001. Drive on right side - exceptions.
• Section 42-4-1002. Passing oncoming vehicles.
• Section 42-4-1003. Overtaking a vehicle on the left.
• Section 42-4-1004. When overtaking on the right is permitted.
• Section 42-4-1005. Limitations on overtaking on the left.
• Section 42-4-1006. One-way roadways and rotary traffic islands.
• Section 42-4-1007. Driving on roadways laned for traffic.
• Section 42-4-1008. Following too closely.
• Section 42-4-1009. Coasting prohibited.
• Section 42-4-1010. Driving on divided or controlled-access highways.
• Section 42-4-1011. Use of runaway vehicle ramps.
• Section 42-4-1012. High occupancy vehicle (HOV) and high occupancy toll (HOT) lanes.
• Section 42-4-1013. Passing lane - definitions - penalty.

Cross references: For the penalties for class 2 misdemeanor traffic offenses and class A traffic infractions, see § 42-4-1701 (3).

• Section 42-4-1101. Speed limits.
• Section 42-4-1102. Altering of speed limits - department to study rural state highways and increase speed limits - definitions - repeal.
• Section 42-4-1103. Minimum speed regulation.
• Section 42-4-1104. Speed limits on elevated structures.
• Section 42-4-1105. Speed contests - speed exhibitions - aiding and facilitating immobilization of motor vehicle - definitions.
• Section 42-4-1106. Minimum speed in left lane - interstate 70.

Cross references: For penalties for class A and class B traffic infractions, see § 42-41701 (3)(a)(I).

1201. Starting parked vehicle. No person shall start a vehicle which is stopped, standing, or parked unless and until such movement can be made with reasonable safety. Any person who violates any provision of this section commits a class A traffic infraction.

Source: L. 94: Entire title amended with relocations, p. 2369, § 1, effective January 1, 1995.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 42-4-1101 as it existed prior to 1994, and the former § 42-4-1201 was relocated to § 42-2-128.

1202. Parking or abandonment of vehicles. (1) No person shall stop, park, or leave standing any vehicle, either attended or unattended, outside of a business or a residential district, upon the paved or improved and main-traveled part of the highway. Nothing contained in this section shall apply to the driver of any vehicle which is disabled while on the paved or improved and main-traveled portion of a highway in such manner and to such extent that it is impossible to avoid stopping and temporarily leaving such disabled vehicle in such position, subject, when applicable, to the emergency lighting requirements set forth in section 42-4-230.

(2) Any person who violates any provision of this section commits a class B traffic infraction.

Source: L. 94: Entire title amended with relocations, p. 2369, § 1, effective January 1, 1995.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 42-4-1102 as it existed prior to 1994, and the former § 42-4-1202 was relocated to § 42-4-1301.

Cross references: For transfer and purge of titles of abandoned vehicles, see § 42-41810; for criminal penalty for abandonment of a motor vehicle, see § 18-4-512.

• Section 42-4-1203. Ski areas to install signs.
• Section 42-4-1204. Stopping, standing, or parking prohibited in specified places.
• Section 42-4-1205. Parking at curb or edge of roadway.
• Section 42-4-1206. Unattended motor vehicle - definitions.
• Section 42-4-1207. Opening and closing vehicle doors.
• Section 42-4-1208. Reserved parking for persons with disabilities - applicability - rules.
• Section 42-4-1209. Owner liability for parking violations.
• Section 42-4-1210. Designated areas on private property for authorized vehicles.
• Section 42-4-1211. Limitations on backing.
• Section 42-4-1212. Pay parking access for persons with disabilities.
• Section 42-4-1213. Parking in electric motor vehicle charging stations - definition.

• Section 42-4-1300.3. Definitions. (Repealed)
• Section 42-4-1301. Driving under the influence - driving while impaired - driving with excessive alcoholic content - definitions - penalties.
• Section 42-4-1301.1. Expressed consent for the taking of blood, breath, urine, or saliva sample - testing - fund - rules - repeal.
• Section 42-4-1301.2. Refusal of test - effect on driver's license - revocation - reinstatement. (Repealed)
• Section 42-4-1301.3. Alcohol and drug driving safety program - definition.
• Section 42-4-1302. Stopping of suspect.
• Section 42-4-1303. Records - prima facie proof.
• Section 42-4-1304. Samples of blood or other bodily substance - duties of department of public health and environment - rules.
• Section 42-4-1305. Open alcoholic beverage container - motor vehicle - prohibited.
• Section 42-4-1305.5. Open marijuana container - motor vehicle - prohibited.
• Section 42-4-1306. Colorado task force on drunk and impaired driving - creation legislative declaration.
• Section 42-4-1307. Penalties for traffic offenses involving alcohol and drugs - legislative declaration - definitions - repeal.

Cross references: For penalties for class 1 and class 2 misdemeanor traffic offenses and class A and class B traffic infractions, see § 42-4-1701 (3)(a).

• Section 42-4-1401. Reckless driving - penalty.
• Section 42-4-1402. Careless driving - penalty.
• Section 42-4-1402.5. Vulnerable road user - prohibition - violations and penalties definition.
• Section 42-4-1403. Following fire apparatus prohibited.
• Section 42-4-1404. Crossing fire hose.
• Section 42-4-1405. Riding in trailers.
• Section 42-4-1406. Foreign matter on highway prohibited.
• Section 42-4-1407. Spilling loads on highways prohibited - prevention of spilling of aggregate, trash, or recyclables.
• Section 42-4-1407.5. Splash guards - when required - definition.
• Section 42-4-1408. Operation of motor vehicles on property under control of or owned by parks and recreation districts.
• Section 42-4-1409. Compulsory insurance - penalty - legislative intent.
• Section 42-4-1410. Proof of financial responsibility required - suspension of license.
• Section 42-4-1410.5. Providing false evidence of proof of motor vehicle insurance - penalty.
• Section 42-4-1411. Use of earphones while driving.
• Section 42-4-1412. Operation of bicycles, electric scooters, and other human-powered vehicles.
• Section 42-4-1412.5. Local adoption of alternative regulation of bicycles and electric scooters approaching intersections - alternative regulation described - validity of existing local ordinance or resolution - definitions.
• Section 42-4-1413. Eluding or attempting to elude a police officer.
• Section 42-4-1414. Use of dyed fuel on highways prohibited.
• Section 42-4-1415. Radar jamming devices prohibited - penalty.
• Section 42-4-1416. Failure to present a valid transit pass or coupon - fare inspector authorization - definitions.

Cross references: For minimum safety standards for motorcycles, see § 42-4-232; for penalties for class A traffic infractions, see § 42-4-1701 (3)(a)(I).

• Section 42-4-1501. Traffic laws apply to persons operating motorcycles - special permits.
• Section 42-4-1502. Riding on motorcycles - protective helmet.
• Section 42-4-1503. Operating motorcycles on roadways laned for traffic.
• Section 42-4-1504. Clinging to other vehicles.

Editor's note: Section 42-4-103 (2)(b) provides that the provisions of this part 16 apply to the operation of vehicles and the movement of pedestrians upon streets and highways and elsewhere throughout the state.

Cross references: For penalties for class 1 and class 2 misdemeanor traffic offenses, see § 42-4-1701 (3)(a)(II).

• Section 42-4-1601. Accidents involving death or personal injuries - duties.
• Section 42-4-1602. Accident involving damage - duty.
• Section 42-4-1603. Duty to give notice, information, and aid.
• Section 42-4-1604. Duty upon striking unattended vehicle or other property.
• Section 42-4-1605. Duty upon striking highway fixtures or traffic control devices.
• Section 42-4-1606. Duty to report accidents.
• Section 42-4-1607. When driver unable to give notice or make written report.
• Section 42-4-1608. Accident report forms.
• Section 42-4-1609. Coroners to report.
• Section 42-4-1610. Reports by interested parties confidential.
• Section 42-4-1611. Tabulation and analysis of reports.
• Section 42-4-1612. Accidents in state highway work areas.

• Section 42-4-1701. Traffic offenses and infractions classified - penalties - penalty and surcharge schedule - repeal.
• Section 42-4-1702. Alcohol- or drug-related traffic offenses - collateral attack.
• Section 42-4-1703. Parties to a crime.
• Section 42-4-1704. Offenses by persons controlling vehicles.
• Section 42-4-1705. Person arrested to be taken before the proper court.
• Section 42-4-1706. Juveniles - convicted - arrested and incarcerated - provisions for confinement.
• Section 42-4-1707. Summons and complaint or penalty assessment notice for misdemeanors, petty offenses, and misdemeanor traffic offenses - release - registration.
• Section 42-4-1708. Traffic infractions - proper court for hearing, burden of proof - appeal collateral attack.
• Section 42-4-1709. Penalty assessment notice for traffic infractions - violations of provisions by officer - driver's license.
• Section 42-4-1710. Failure to pay penalty for traffic infractions - failure of parent or guardian to sign penalty assessment notice - procedures.
• Section 42-4-1711. Compliance with promise to appear.
• Section 42-4-1712. Procedure prescribed not exclusive.
• Section 42-4-1713. Conviction record inadmissible in civil action.
• Section 42-4-1714. Traffic violation not to affect credibility of witness.
• Section 42-4-1715. Convictions, judgments, and charges recorded - public inspection.
• Section 42-4-1716. Notice to appear or pay fine - failure to appear - penalty.
• Section 42-4-1717. Conviction - attendance at driver improvement school - rules.
• Section 42-4-1718. Electronic transmission of data - standards.
• Section 42-4-1719. Violations - commercial driver's license - compliance with federal regulation.

Editor's note: This title was amended with relocations in 1994, and this part 18 was subsequently amended with relocations in 2002, resulting in the addition, relocation, and elimination of sections as well as subject matter. For amendments to this part 18 prior to 2002, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume and the editor's note following the title heading. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections that were relocated in 2002.

Cross references: For provisions concerning vehicles abandoned on private property, see part 21 of this article.

• Section 42-4-1801. Legislative declaration.
• Section 42-4-1802. Definitions.
• Section 42-4-1803. Abandonment of motor vehicles - public property.
• Section 42-4-1804. Report of abandoned motor vehicles - owner's opportunity to request hearing.
• Section 42-4-1805. Appraisal of abandoned motor vehicles - sale.
• Section 42-4-1806. Liens upon towed motor vehicles.
• Section 42-4-1807. Perfection of lien.
• Section 42-4-1808. Foreclosure of lien.
• Section 42-4-1809. Proceeds of sale.
• Section 42-4-1810. Transfer and purge of certificates of title.
• Section 42-4-1811. Penalty.
• Section 42-4-1812. Exemptions.
• Section 42-4-1813. Local regulations.
• Section 42-4-1814. Violation of motor vehicle registration or inspection laws - separate statutory provision.

• Section 42-4-1901. School buses - equipped with supplementary brake retarders.
• Section 42-4-1902. School vehicle drivers - special training required.
• Section 42-4-1903. School buses - stops - signs - passing.
• Section 42-4-1904. Regulations for school buses - regulations on discharge of passengers penalty - exception.

• Section 42-4-2001. Maximum hours of service - ready-mix concrete truck operators.

Editor's note: This part 21 was added with relocations in 2002. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections that were relocated.

Cross references: For provisions concerning vehicles abandoned on public property, see part 18 of this article.

• Section 42-4-2101. Legislative declaration.
• Section 42-4-2102. Definitions.
• Section 42-4-2103. Abandonment of motor vehicles - private property - rules.
• Section 42-4-2104. Appraisal of abandoned motor vehicles - sale.
• Section 42-4-2104.5. Abandonment of motor vehicles of limited value at repair shops legislative declaration - definitions. (Repealed)
• Section 42-4-2105. Liens upon towed motor vehicles.
• Section 42-4-2106. Perfection of lien.
• Section 42-4-2107. Foreclosure of lien.
• Section 42-4-2108. Proceeds of sale.
• Section 42-4-2109. Transfer and purge of certificates of title.
• Section 42-4-2110. Penalty.

• Section 42-4-2201. Definitions.
• Section 42-4-2202. Transfer for recycling.
• Section 42-4-2203. Vehicle verification system - fees - rules.
• Section 42-4-2204. Theft discovered - duties - liability.

• Section 42-4-2301. Comprehensive education.

Editor's note: This part 24 was added with relocations in 2018. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections that were relocated. For a detailed comparison of this part 24, see the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

• Section 42-4-2401. Definitions.
• Section 42-4-2402. Event data recorders.
• Section 42-4-2403. Applicability.