Law enforcement says motorcycle crashes and deaths are up across the state
Bradley Davis
Editor’s note: On July 9, we aired a story based on incorrect information provided by the Colorado State Patrol regarding Colorado’s new lane filtering law. At the time, CSP stated that confusion over the law was contributing to an increase in motorcycle crashes and fatalities this year. They have since clarified that there is no data linking the law to the rise in incidents.
Additionally, CSP initially told KRDO13 that it is illegal for motorcycles to pass cars in standstill highway traffic. We sought confirmation multiple times and were assured this was correct. CSP has now clarified that under the new law, motorcycles are permitted to pass vehicles at 15 mph or less when traffic is stopped on the highway.
We regret the error and are committed to providing accurate, up-to-date information to our viewers.
COLORADO SPRINGS, (KRDO) – The Colorado Springs Police Department said the number of motorcycle deaths has doubled from this time last year.
It said 12 motorcyclists have died in 2025, compared to six this time last year.
Additionally, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) said there were 43 motorcycle crashes and 11 deaths statewide last month.
CSP also said some motorcyclists are confusing the new lane filtering law with lane splitting. Lane filtering is slowly passing other vehicles when traffic is stopped. Lane splitting is passing between two moving vehicles. Lane filtering is legal in Colorado, while lane splitting is illegal everywhere except California.
CSP said they do not have data showing a link between the new lane filtering law enacted last August and the uptick in motorcycle deaths.
One motorcyclist who’s lived in both California and Colorado said lane splitting is not something El Paso and Pueblo Counties are ready for.
“I think some people do it, and want to try to be like that, and they want lane splitting out here, but these streets ain’t ready for that yet! They aren’t wide enough yet,” said Pikes Peak Indian Motorcycle sales manager Vinnie Perez.
Perez said he loves the new lane filtering law when practiced correctly. He said it helps motorcyclists avoid rear-end collisions and escape the heat when stopped at a long red light with no air conditioning.
“Lane filtering is something I dig myself. Versus sitting way back in traffic, I can just slide up, if it’s safe to do so, and be out of your way in no time and maybe meet you at the next light.”
Below is how CSP characterizes what is allowed and not allowed under the new lane filtering law.
Lane Filtering (legal under new law)
Traffic in the rider’s lane must be going the same direction and at a complete stop.
The lane must be wide enough to fit the vehicle and motorcycle while passing.
The motorcycle must go 15 mph or less.
The rider must pass safely.
The rider must pass on the left and not enter the oncoming traffic lane.
Lane Splitting (illegal)
Driving a motorcycle between lanes of moving traffic, no matter how slow.
Often involves riding between traffic on the painted center line.
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is conducting a safety study on the new lane filtering law, stating that representatives will make a decision on whether to extend or repeal the law in the 2028 legislative session, based on the report’s findings.
CSP warned that the way motorcyclists behave on the roads over the next three years will determine whether the law gets renewed.