Avoid Fines: This Simple Driving Mistake Is Illegal in Colorado

Colorado is a state that can sometimes experience all four seasons in a matter of hours. This can make driving a challenge, especially if some motorists don't do their part to keep everyone safe.

Read More: 6 Reasons Drivers Flash Their Headlights at You in Colorado

No matter if it's rain, sleet, snow, or fog, there is one thing Colorado motorists need to do when visibility is less than 1000 feet. Making this simple mistake could cost you financially and add points to your driving record.

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What Does Colorado's Headlight Law Say?

The simple mistake most people forget when driving in bad weather is that Colorado law requires vehicles to turn on their headlights whenever visibility is less than 1000 feet.

Colorado’s headlight law is covered under Colorado Revised Statute 42-4-204. The law says all vehicles must use headlights from sunset until sunrise, and if the weather (rain, snow, sleet, fog, etc.) requires you to turn on your windshield wipers - your headlights must also be turned on.

Penalties and Violations in Colorado

Forgetting to turn on your headlights puts you at risk, and it also puts the cars around you at risk. The state of Colorado considers forgetting to use your headlights to be a minor Class A Traffic Violation. The fine can cost drivers up to $100 with additional court costs. It may also add 1 or 2 points to your Colorado driving record.

Read More: Are Two License Plates Required in Colorado?

Exceptions to Colorado's Headlight Law

Known exceptions to Colorado’s headlight law include vehicles that have daytime running lights (or lamps), which are generally considered compliant. The law, however, specifically calls for headlights to be on in certain conditions. If an officer does not think your DRLs are up to the task, you may get a ticket anyway.

Emergency and Maintenance vehicles may have different lighting requirements and may not be required to leave headlights on the way a regular vehicle would. Parked vehicles that are parked legally do not have to leave their headlights on, even if conditions create low visibility.