Colorado's scenic highways and bustling urban centers are home to a constant flow of commercial truck traffic. With this heavy presence of large vehicles comes the need for robust laws and regulations to ensure safety for all road users.

Whether you're operating behind the wheel of a big rig, or a concerned citizen looking to learn more about road safety, it's important to know the basics of Colorado's semi truck laws. This comprehensive guide, provided by a personal injury attorney in Colorado, will delve into the various aspects of truck regulations in the Centennial State, covering everything from semi truck laws to truck driver rights.

Let's explore the various facets of Colorado's truck laws and regulations in detail.

Semi Truck Laws in Colorado

Colorado's unique geography, with its mountainous terrain and unpredictable weather conditions, makes truck laws particularly significant. These regulations aim to enhance road safety for all users, protect the state's infrastructure, ensure fair competition in the trucking industry, and safeguard the rights and well-being of truck drivers

To keep everyone safe, there are lots of rules for trucking companies to follow, from both the state and federal government. Colorado has specific laws aimed at protecting truck driver rights, including regulations on maximum driving hours and mandatory rest periods for commercial semi truck operators.

It doesn't matter if you're just passing through or if you work entirely within the state - you've got to know and stick to these local laws if you're behind the wheel of a big rig here in Colorado.

Colorado CDL Requirements

Want to drive big rigs or buses? You'll need a commercial driver's license (CDL). Here's the scoop on when you need one and how to get it.

A CDL is required if you're driving:

• Any commercial motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more
• Any commercial vehicle designed to transport 16+ people (including the driver)
• Any vehicle carrying hazardous materials needs to have warning placards according to federal regulations.

CDL requirements in the state:

• A regular driver's license (from Colorado or elsewhere)
• A health check card from a special doctor
• Your Social Security number
• Proof you passed a driving test (within the last 2 months)

Additionally, certain endorsements may be required depending on the type of cargo or vehicle:

• Hazardous materials (H)
• Tank vehicles (N)
• Passenger vehicles (P)
• School buses (S)
• Double/triple trailers (T)

Hazardous Materials Requirements

You'll need to pass the HAZMAT written exam and a TSA background check. Colorado has three types of CDLs:

• Class A: for combination vehicles with a combined gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the gross vehicle weight rating of the vehicle being towed is greater than 10,000 pounds
• Class B: for straight trucks and light combinations, with a single vehicle GVWR of 26,001 pounds, or any vehicle towing another vehicle whose GVWR does not exceed 10,000 pounds
• Class C: vehicles with a GVWR of less than 26,001 that transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or is placarded for the transport of hazardous materials

Each class lets you drive different kinds of vehicles. Remember, driving big vehicles is a big responsibility. These rules help keep everyone safe on the road.

Insurance Requirements

Federal law mandates that all motor carriers and commercial vehicles, whether they operate within Colorado or across state lines, must maintain the following insurance coverage:

• For-hire vehicles weighing 10,001 pounds or more and carrying nonhazardous goods: $750,000
• For-hire and private vehicles weighing 10,001 pounds or more and transporting hazardous materials in bulk or cargo tanks: $5 million
• For-hire and private vehicles weighing less than 10,001 pounds and transporting hazardous materials: $5 million
• For-hire and private vehicles weighing 10,001 pounds or more and carrying hazardous materials, without falling under other specific insurance requirements: $1 million

Weight and Dimensional Limits for Commercial Vehicles in Colorado

In Colorado, both state and federal laws set weight limits for commercial vehicles. Here are the maximum weights allowed:

• Single vehicle with two axles: Up to 36,000 pounds
• Single vehicle with three or more axles: Up to 54,000 pounds
• Truck/trailer and combination vehicles: Up to 85,000 pounds according to Colorado state law, and up to 80,000 pounds according to federal law

Colorado enforces strict size limits for commercial vehicles:

• Width: Maximum 8'6" (102 inches)
• Height: Maximum 14'6" (174 inches)
• Length:
  • Single vehicle: 45 feet
  • Truck-tractor and semi-trailer combination: 75 feet
  • Truck-trailer combination: 70 feet

Exceeding these limits requires special permits, which brings us to our next topic.

Oversize and Overweight Permits

When a truck surpasses standard size or weight limits, carriers must obtain permits from the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). These permits ensure that oversized loads can be transported safely without damaging roads or bridges.

Hazardous Materials Transport Guidelines in Colorado

Truck drivers transporting hazardous materials in Colorado must secure a permit from the Colorado Public Utilities Commission. However, some radioactive materials, such as those used for medical purposes or national security, do not require this permit.

Additionally, the Colorado State Patrol can designate specific public roads for trucks carrying hazardous materials to use.

On a federal level, trucking companies that handle hazardous materials must get a Hazardous Materials Safety Permit from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Trucks need this permit if they carry:

• Radioactive materials
• Explosives
• Poisonous or toxic inhalants
• Methane
• Liquefied natural gas
• Any other liquefied gas with at least 85% methane content

To obtain and keep a hazardous materials safety permit, trucking companies need to follow specific rules. These companies have to prove they can safely handle hazardous materials before they're allowed to haul them. Once they have the permit, they must continue to meet these safety standards or risk losing it.

Colorado Chains Law for Commercial Vehicles

In Colorado, the chain law requires all commercial vehicles on Interstate 70 between mile markers 133 and 259 to carry enough chains or traction devices from September 1 to May 31.

When the amber lights on the chain law signs are flashing or there are notifications on message boards, drivers must put chains on their wheels.

For vehicles weighing 26,001 pounds or more, chains or traction devices must be placed on at least four drive wheels. Other commercial vehicles and those with fewer than four drive wheels need to have chains or traction devices on the applicable wheels.

Big Rigs Need Mud Flaps or Splash Guards in Colorado

If you're driving a large truck in Colorado, you need to know about the state's rules on splash guards. These are those flaps you see behind truck tires that stop water and debris from flying up. In Colorado, it's the law that all big trucks have these guards, and they need to be in good shape whenever the truck is on the road.

If a splash guard gets damaged while you're driving, the law says you should fix it as soon as you can safely pull over. This helps keep other drivers safe and prevents damage to other vehicles.

So, truckers, remember to check your splash guards before you hit the road, and keep an eye on them during your trip. It's not just about following the rules – it's about being a responsible driver on Colorado's highways.

Truck Driver Rights in Colorado

Federal regulations set strict limits on how long truck drivers can work. They can be on duty for a maximum of 14 hours within any 24-hour period. In addition to these federal rules, Colorado has its own hours of service requirements for truck drivers:

• Drivers can drive for up to 11 hours during any 14-hour on-duty period.
• After driving for 11 hours, drivers must take at least 10 consecutive hours off duty.
• The 14-hour on-duty period cannot be extended by taking breaks, meals, or fuel stops.
• Drivers cannot be on duty for more than 60 hours over any seven consecutive days, or 70 hours over any eight consecutive days.

If the vehicle has a sleeper berth, drivers must spend at least eight consecutive hours of their 10-hour off-duty period in the berth. The remaining two hours can be spent in the berth, off duty, or doing other activities like eating or showering.

Truck driver rights are an essential component of Colorado's trucking laws. These rights ensure fair treatment and safe working conditions for drivers.

Right to Refuse Unsafe Loads

Drivers have the right to refuse to operate a vehicle if:

• The vehicle is in an unsafe condition
• The load is improperly distributed or secured
• Operating the vehicle would violate federal regulations

Whistleblower Protections

Colorado law protects drivers who report safety violations or refuse to violate safety regulations. This encourages a culture of safety within the industry.

Fair Compensation

Drivers are entitled to fair compensation for all hours worked, including non-driving duties such as loading and unloading. Proper compensation helps in preventing fatigue-related accidents, it's difficult to overstate how much this matters for driver safety on the job.

The Role of Technology in Compliance

Advancements in technology have significantly impacted the trucking industry and compliance with regulations:

• Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): ELDs have replaced paper logs for most carriers, providing more accurate records of driving hours and simplifying compliance with hours of service regulations.
• GPS Tracking: Real-time tracking helps companies optimize routes and ensure compliance with weight and size restrictions on specific roads.
• Telematics: Advanced telematics systems can monitor driver behavior, vehicle performance, and maintenance needs, enhancing overall safety and compliance.

Electronic Logging Devices (ELD)

On December 16, 2015, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) introduced a new rule requiring many commercial motor carriers to use electronic logging devices (ELDs) for tracking driving hours.

This rule applies to commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) over 10,000 pounds. By December 17, 2017, all affected motor carriers were required to have ELDs installed and in use.

Important note: On May 21, 2024, FMCSA removed ELD MANDATE PLUS devices from the list of registered ELDs due to the company's failure to meet the minimum requirements. Motor carriers using ELD MANDATE PLUS devices must replace them with a registered ELD before July 20, 2024.

Who Needs to Use ELDs?

Most motor carriers must install ELDs to comply with the FMCSA’s Hours of Service (HOS) rules. However, there are a few exceptions:

• Drivers operating vehicles manufactured before the year 2000.
• Drivers operating vehicles used as the power unit in drive-away/tow-away operations.
• Drivers who are not required to use a logbook for more than 8 days within any 30-day period. This includes drivers who typically use local exemptions, like the 100 or 150 air mile radius rules, but occasionally need to maintain a logbook.
• Drivers of vehicles defined as "Covered Farm Vehicles" (see CFR 49 390.2 for details).
• Drivers of vehicles classified as "Utility Service Vehicles" (see CFR 49 390.2 for details).

Electronic logging devices (ELDs) are intended to create a safer work environment for drivers of commercial motor vehicles, and make it easier and faster to accurately track, manage, and share data on driving and off-duty time.

Maintenance and Inspection Requirements

Regular maintenance and inspections are necessary for ensuring the safety of commercial trucks on Colorado roads.

Annual Inspections

All commercial vehicles must undergo an annual inspection performed by a qualified inspector. This comprehensive check ensures that all critical systems are in proper working order.

Daily Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIR)

Drivers are required to conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections, documenting any defects or deficiencies.

Roadside Inspections

Colorado State Patrol and other authorized personnel may conduct random roadside inspections. These checks help enforce compliance with safety regulations and identify vehicles that pose immediate hazards.

Environmental Regulations

Colorado has implemented several environmental regulations affecting the trucking industry:

Idle Reduction Laws

To combat air pollution, Colorado limits idling time for commercial vehicles to 5 minutes per hour, with exceptions for extreme weather conditions or mechanical issues.

Emissions Testing

Commercial vehicles over 14,000 lbs GVWR registered in the Denver metro area and North Front Range must undergo periodic emissions testing.

Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) Standards

Colorado has adopted California's Low Emission Vehicle standards, which may affect future truck purchases and modifications.

Special Considerations for Mountain Driving

Colorado's mountainous terrain presents unique challenges for truck drivers. The state has implemented specific regulations to address these risks:

• Chain Laws: During winter months, Colorado enforces chain laws, requiring commercial vehicles to carry and use tire chains when road conditions deteriorate.
• Runaway Truck Ramps: Drivers must be familiar with the locations and proper use of runaway truck ramps, which are critical safety features on steep mountain passes.
• Speed Limits on Grades: Reduced speed limits are often in effect on steep grades. Drivers must adhere to these limits and use appropriate gearing to maintain control.

Enforcement and Penalties

Colorado takes truck law enforcement seriously. Various agencies, including the Colorado State Patrol and local law enforcement, work together to ensure compliance.

Some common violations and penalties include:

• Overweight violations: Fines based on the amount over the legal limit
• Hours of service violations: Fines and potential out-of-service orders
• Equipment violations: Fines and possible vehicle impoundment
• CDL violations: License suspension or revocation

In cases of severe or repeated violations, criminal charges may be filed, potentially leading to imprisonment.

Resources for Truck Drivers and Companies

Staying informed about Colorado's truck laws and regulations is crucial for compliance and safety. Here are some valuable resources:

• Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) website
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines
• Colorado Motor Carriers Association (CMCA)
• Local trucking industry workshops and seminars

Got More Questions About Colorado Semi Truck Laws?

Navigating the complex landscape of Colorado's truck laws and regulations requires diligence, understanding, and a commitment to safety. From semi truck laws to truck driver rights, the regulations discussed in this article form the backbone of a safe and efficient trucking industry in the Centennial State.

Whether you're a truck driver, a fleet manager, or a concerned citizen, staying informed about these laws is crucial. By adhering to these regulations, we can ensure that Colorado's roads remain safe for all users while maintaining a thriving commercial transportation sector.

Remember, when in doubt about legal matters related to trucking, consulting with a qualified Colorado Springs personal injury lawyer can provide the guidance needed to navigate this complex field. Stay safe, stay compliant, and keep on trucking!