HB 20-1145 Summary

• Requires drivers approaching or passing stationary emergency vehicles, towing carrier vehicles, or public utility service vehicles with warning lights to exhibit due care and caution.

• On highways with at least two adjacent lanes in the same direction, drivers must move into a lane at least one moving lane apart from the stationary vehicle unless directed otherwise by emergency personnel or if unsafe due to weather, road conditions, or traffic.

• On single-lane highways or when lane movement is impossible, drivers must reduce speed to a presumed safe speed: 25 mph or less if speed limit is under 45 mph, or 20 mph less than the speed limit if 45 mph or higher.

• Directs the Colorado State Patrol Executive Director and the State Transportation Chief to jointly create a public awareness campaign about section 42-4-705 requirements and dangers of stationary emergency and service vehicles.

• Takes effect 90 days after final adjournment of the general assembly (August 5, 2020) unless subject to referendum petition, in which case it requires voter approval at the November 2020 general election.