Law Changes Affecting Colorado Roads in 2025

New laws often take affect at the first of the year and 2025 is no exception. As of the first of the year, Colorado has implemented a number of new laws that affect cars, roads, drivers, and just about every aspect of driving. In case you are unaware of the new laws and law changes that hit the state a little over a month ago, here is what you should know.

A New Fine for Weaving

As of January 1, drivers who are caught weaving in and out of express lanes will be subject to fines. Specifically, the fine will be issued to drivers who are seen doing this on the Central 70, Interstate 24 South Gap, and US 36 corridors. Under this law, finable weaving is defined as entering or exiting the express lanes outside of the designated open areas. The fine is set to start at $75 but will increase to $150 if it is not paid after 20 days. The fine can go as high as $250. This law was passed and implemented in order to reduce the number of sideswipe accidents. These accidents were dangerously common as people too often would enter or exit the fast paced lane outside of the lane openings where it was unexpected to those already driving in the lane.

Adjustments to Car Seat Requirements

This year, adjustments were made that alter the requirements for children riding in car seats. Per the new law, children must be in a car seat or a booster seat until they are nine years old and at least 40 pounds. Previously, children had to be at least eight years old before they could move out of car seats or booster seats. Additionally, children must be in a rear facing car seat until they are two years old and less than 40 pounds. At this young age, facing backwards keeps the child safer. Furthermore, unless one is unavailable, children must be in the back seat. A leading child safety instructor supported the changes and suggested people contact car seat safety technicians in their area in order to verify they are following proper safety protocols for their children.

New Law Defining Hands-Free Driving

Distracted driving already has definitions marking various things as illegal, such as texting while driving. According to the new law, now simply having a cell phone in your hand for any period of time while driving is illegal. Adult drivers must have a hands-free system if they want to make phone calls or set up GPS directions. With the way in which this law defines the action of holding your phone as one offense, texting on it is considered a second offense. Drivers caught violating this law could face fines and marks on their driving record.