Emergency Situations and Defensive Driving in Colorado

1. What is the legal blood alcohol limit in Colorado for operating a vehicle?


The legal blood alcohol limit in Colorado for operating a vehicle is 0.08%.

2. What are the rules for passing a stopped school bus in Colorado?


In Colorado, when a school bus is stopped and its red lights are flashing, drivers must stop their vehicle in both directions of traffic, and remain stopped until the red lights are no longer flashing. Drivers must stop their vehicle at least 20 feet away from the bus. When the bus resumes motion, drivers may proceed.

3. In what situations should a driver yield the right of way in Colorado?


In Colorado, drivers should yield the right of way to:
– Pedestrians in crosswalks
– Vehicles on the main highway when entering from a side road
– Vehicles at uncontrolled four-way stop intersections
– Emergency vehicles
– Vehicles approaching from the right at a stop sign or yield sign
– Blind pedestrians with a white cane or service dog.

4. What is Colorado’s distracted driving law?


Colorado’s distracted driving law prohibits the use of handheld electronic devices while driving. This includes texting, talking, checking emails, or browsing the internet. It also prohibits activities such as grooming and reading while driving. Drivers under 18 years of age are prohibited from any use of a cell phone while operating a vehicle.

5. Is it legal to use a cell phone while driving in Colorado?


No, it is illegal to use a cell phone while driving in Colorado. This includes talking on the phone, texting, and using other applications.

6. When should a driver use high beams in Colorado?


In Colorado, drivers should use high beams when there is no approaching traffic, and when the road is clear. It is important to remember to switch back to low beams when an oncoming vehicle is in sight.

7. What is the speed limit on highways in Colorado?


The speed limit on highways in Colorado is 75 mph.

8. How long are drivers allowed to drive without taking a break in Colorado?


In Colorado, a driver is allowed to be on duty for a maximum of 14 hours, with 11 hours of driving time allowed. Drivers are also required to take a 30 minute break after 8 hours of driving.

9. What should drivers do when approaching a railroad crossing in Colorado?


When approaching a railroad crossing in Colorado, drivers should slow down and prepare to stop if necessary. They should look and listen for an approaching train, and never try to beat a train at the crossing. Drivers should always obey the signs and signals, including traffic signals, gates, and warning lights.

10. How should drivers react if they encounter an aggressive driver on the road in Colorado?


If you encounter an aggressive driver on the road, the best thing to do is remain calm and not to engage with them. Avoid eye contact, and do not honk your horn or make any other aggressive gestures. If possible, try to get out of the other driver’s way, or drive to a safer area if one is available. If the situation becomes unsafe, contact law enforcement immediately.

11. How should drivers react to a flooded roadway in Colorado?


Drivers should avoid flooded roads in Colorado. If they come across a flooded roadway, they should turn around and find an alternate route. If a driver finds themselves driving into water, they should immediately stop and get out of the vehicle, as the water can be much deeper than it appears.

12. How can drivers prepare their vehicles for winter driving in Colorado?


Drivers should check all of their vehicle’s fluids, including motor oil, coolant, and brakes. They should also check their tires to make sure the tread and pressure are in good condition, as well as making sure all headlights and tail lights are working properly. It’s also important to make sure your vehicle is ready for winter weather conditions such as snow and ice by having a bag of sand or kitty litter in the trunk for traction if you get stuck. Lastly, drivers should make sure they have a full tank of gas and an emergency kit in their car with items such as a flashlight, jumper cables, and a first-aid kit.

13. What is the legal age for operating a vehicle in Colorado?


The legal age for operating a vehicle in Colorado is 16 years old, with certain restrictions.

14. What are the rules for stopping at a stop sign in Colorado?


At a stop sign in Colorado, drivers must come to a complete stop before the line on the road. Drivers should yield the right-of-way to any cars that have already entered the intersection and then proceed when safe to do so. All drivers must come to a complete stop before entering the intersection. If there is more than one car at the stop sign, the vehicle on the right should go first. Remember, there is no rolling stop or “California Stop” allowed.

15. Who has the right of way at an uncontrolled intersection in Colorado?


At an uncontrolled intersection in Colorado, the vehicle that arrives first has the right of way. If two vehicles arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the right has the right of way.

16. What are the rules for using emergency lanes on highways in Colorado?


Emergency lanes are for use by emergency vehicles only. It is illegal to use them unless you are in an authorized emergency vehicle, or unless the roadway has become so congested that the emergency lane can be used to reduce congestion. As a general rule, use of an emergency lane should be a last resort, and drivers should use them only when absolutely necessary and for a short distance. Drivers should also follow all road signs and signals when entering and exiting an emergency lane.

17. How should drivers manage their speed on curvy roads in Colorado?


Drivers should always reduce their speed and drive carefully on curvy roads in Colorado. Since the terrain of Colorado can be unpredictable, drivers should always pay attention to the speed limit signs, adjust to the terrain, and maintain a safe speed. Additionally, drivers should allow extra time to maneuver curves and be aware of their surroundings.

18. What is the minimum age for having a learner’s permit in Colorado?


In Colorado, the minimum age for having a learner’s permit is 15 years old.

19. What is the rule for yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks in Colorado?


In Colorado, drivers must stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks. Drivers should remain stopped until the pedestrian has crossed the entire roadway. If the pedestrian is still in the roadway or if another vehicle is stopped to allow them to cross, you must also stay stopped.

20. When should drivers use headlights during daylight hours in Colorado?


In Colorado, headlights must be turned on during the day when visibility is reduced due to precipitation, smoke, fog, dust, or other atmospheric conditions. Additionally, if visibility is reduced due to the sun being low in the sky or due to glare from surfaces such as sand or water, headlights should be switched on during the day.