Colorado Safety Stop#
The Colorado Safety Stop bill was signed into state law on April 13, 2022, and became effective immediately. This bill makes it possible for certain road users — those who are riding bicycles, e-bikes, and e-scooters — to yield at stop signs, and to treat red lights as stop signs if the conditions allow for it. Included in the bill is the requirement for education.
According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, the Safety Stop gives people on bikes and other “low speed conveyances” the legal option to ride slowly through stop signs without stopping first, as long as they are yielding right of way to pedestrians and other road users who have the right-of-way. Bicyclists and users of low-speed conveyances may also proceed at red lights after coming to a complete stop, if there is no oncoming traffic. Bicyclists and low-speed conveyance users can approach intersections at a reasonable speed and choose to apply the Safety Stop or continue to perform a traditional stop at both stop signs and red lights. Only bicyclists ages 15 and over may perform the Safety Stop. Younger riders may do so when they are with a parent or legal guardian.
When to and when to not
Are you curious about when you should consider doing the Colorado Safety Stop, and when you shouldn't? Check out our supporting document to help you make a decision.