Colorado Trucking Laws

Must A Truck Driver In Colorado Have A CDL License?

To operate a semi-truck, or a large commercial vehicle, a driver must have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). A commercial motor vehicle is any self-propelled or towed vehicle bearing an apportioned plate or having a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 10,001 pounds or more, which is used in commerce on a public highway.

The CDL license is available to Colorado residents who are 21 years and above, and have met the State of Colorado requirements to operate a commercial motor vehicle. A truck driver can use this license when operating outside the state.

Colorado residents who are between the ages of 18 and 21 who have qualified to be truck drivers can obtain a CDL, but it will have a “K” restriction, which means they are authorized to operate only within the state.

What Are The Hours Of Service Regulations?

A truck driver in Colorado needs to observe the hours of service (HOS) regulations, which are determined by state and federal laws.

Commercial drivers may only work up to a maximum of 14 hours within any 24-hour period. Additionally, a truck driver:

• May only drive up to 11 hours of the 14‑hour “on‑duty” period.
• May not extend the 14‑hour on‑duty window with off‑duty time, meals, or fuel stops.
• Must take 10 consecutive hours of off‑duty time after driving 11 hours.
• May not be on duty more than 60 hours in seven consecutive days or 70 hours in eight consecutive days.
• May take an off-duty break of at least 30 minutes before driving.
• May drive up to 13 hours (extend the 11-hour driving time by two hours) in adverse driving conditions. For example, during harsh weather conditions, or a shut-down of traffic due to a crash.

What Can Happen If A Truck Driver Violates Hos Regulations?

A truck driver caught driving beyond the 11-hour limit, working beyond 14 hours, working without taking a break, or violating any other HOS regulation can be placed “out of service” until they meet off‑duty time requirements or face penalties, such as fines by federal, state, or local enforcement officials. Additionally, the driver’s motor carrier’s safety rating may be downgraded. In serious cases, a driver may face criminal penalties. For example, when they knowingly and willfully violate a HOS regulation. 

How Can A Truck Driver Use The Sleeper Berth?

A truck driver driving a truck with a sleeper berth can spend at least eight consecutive hours in it, and two more hours in either the berth or off-duty. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) offers different ways in which a driver can use the sleeper berth.

What Are The Size And Weight Limits For Trucks Driving In Colorado?

The state and federal governments determine the legal vehicle size and weight limits on state and interstate highways. According to Colorado trucking laws, the length limit of vehicles is 45 ft. and 70 ft. for a combination of vehicles. The maximum length for a semitrailer is 57 ft. 4 in., and when units are combined, the overall length limit is 28 ft. 6 in. for each unit.

The maximum gross weight of trucks allowed on any Colorado non-interstate highway is 85,000 pounds and 80,000 pounds on interstate highways. The maximum weight for a single-axle truck is 20,000 pounds. A single vehicle with two axles can weigh up to a maximum of 36,000 pounds on national highways, and 40,000 pounds on state highways. The maximum weight for a vehicle with three or more axles is 54,000 pounds.

Vehicles exceeding the permitted weight limits must obtain special permits from the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). These include the “extra legal” permit for vehicles that exceed legal size and weight and the “super load” permit for vehicles that weigh 500,000 pounds or more.

What Insurance Requirements Must A Trucker Meet?

Considering the size and weight of trucks, trucking companies and truckers are required to carry high-level coverage, as an accident involving a truck can cause severe injuries or damages. Commercial auto policies in Colorado have a minimum liability limit of $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $15,000 for property damage. This is commonly referred to as the 25/50/15 split limit.

The weight of a truck, and whether it carries hazardous materials, are some of the factors considered to determine the policy a trucker or trucking company needs. For instance, according to FMCSA, a truck that carries non-hazardous materials and weighs 10,001 pounds or more requires a $750,000 liability policy limit.

Must Colorado Truck Drivers Also Follow Federal Regulations for Trucking?

A Colorado truck driver must follow both state and federal regulations. However, in some instances, a driver may solely follow state laws. For instance, in the case of a licensed under 21-year-old truck driver since they only operate in the state. Trucking companies that only operate within the state borders may also be unaffected by federal regulations. Moreover, while the state has the Colorado chain law, which requires commercial drivers to carry chains during winter, the FMCSA does not have it.

Colorado Truck Accident Lawyer

Being involved in a truck accident can be devastating. You need to know how to fight for your rights during this stressful time. A Truck Accident attorney who understands Colorado trucking laws can help you determine when a mistake was committed that resulted in your injury. Contact our team of truck accident lawyers today at Bachus & Schanker. Our team is committed to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering after a truck accident in Colorado.

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