Understanding Colorado’s New Laws for 2025

What’s changing in 2025?

Colorado’s legislative changes for 2025 could impact various aspects of daily life, including driving safety, gun ownership, and personal injury claims. Staying informed on these laws is critical for protecting your rights. At our Colorado-based personal injury law firm, we are dedicated to helping residents navigate these changes and secure fair outcomes in legal disputes. Schedule your free consultation to discuss how these updates might affect you.

Key Legislative Updates in Colorado

Distracted Driving and Phone Usage laws are changing

The Colorado General Assembly has introduced stricter rules to curb distracted driving. Senate Bill 24-065 bans handheld phone usage while driving, enforcing a hands-free accessory requirement. Violations result in a $75 fine and license point deductions for first-time offenders.

These updates align with national trends and aim to lower Colorado’s road fatalities. Drivers now face higher accountability, protecting pedestrians and cyclists who remain vulnerable. If you’ve been affected by a distracted driving accident, our attorneys can help you understand your rights.

Enhanced Child Safety Regulation laws

House Bill 24-1055 revises Colorado’s child passenger safety laws:

• Booster Seats: Mandatory until children are nine years old (previously eight).
• Rear-Facing Car Seats: Required for children under two and below 40 pounds.
• Front Seat Restrictions: All children under 13 must sit in the back seat for enhanced safety.

Motor vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of child injuries. Ensure your family is protected by adhering to these guidelines, or contact us if you’ve encountered an accident related to seat restraint non-compliance.

New Gun Storage and Carry Laws

The 2024 concealed carry requirements under House Bill 24-1174 have grown more rigorous:

• Mandatory Training: Applicants must complete an 8-hour course, including a written exam and live-fire exercise.
• Vehicle Gun Storage: Handguns in unoccupied vehicles must now be secured in locked, hard-sided containers.

Improper gun storage can lead to severe injuries or fatalities. Our firm specializes in cases involving firearm injuries caused by negligence.

Legislative Changes Affecting Personal Injury Cases

Impact of the Updated Lemon Law

Senate Bill 24-192 extends consumer rights for faulty vehicle claims, giving buyers more time to file and mandating transparency for “Lemon Law Buybacks.” If a defective vehicle caused your accident, this updated law could impact your case.

Senate Bill 24-065: Tackling Distracted Driving Accidents in 2025

Senate Bill 24-065 introduces strict measures to combat distracted driving in Colorado. The new law bans the use of handheld phones while driving, mandating hands-free accessories for all drivers. Penalties for non-compliance include:

•     First Offense: $75 fine and two points on your license.
•     Repeat Offenses: Increased fines and additional license points.

Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents in Colorado. If you’ve been injured due to another driver’s negligence, this law strengthens the framework for pursuing compensation. Our legal team can guide you through filing claims under the updated legislation.

Senate Bill 24-2055: Strengthening Child Passenger Safety

Senate Bill 24-2055 significantly updates child passenger safety regulations to ensure better protection for young passengers. Key changes include:

• Booster Seat Requirement: Children must remain in booster seats until they are nine years old (previously eight).
• Rear-Facing Car Seats: Mandatory for children under two years old and weighing under 40 pounds.
• Front Seat Restrictions: Children under 13 must ride in the back seat when possible.

These changes aim to reduce injuries and fatalities involving children in car accidents. If your family has experienced an accident linked to unsafe vehicle conditions or non-compliance with safety standards, we can help you seek justice and compensation.

Why Choose Our Watkins Law For Your Personal Injury Claim?

We have years of experience representing hundreds of clients in Denver, and all across the Colorado front range in personal injury cases. From car accidents to slip and fall injuries injuries, we stay updated on legislative changes to provide unparalleled legal expertise.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Our team is committed to helping you secure the compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado’s New Laws

What is the penalty for using a handheld phone while driving?

• Starting January 2025, using a handheld phone while driving in Colorado results in a $75 fine and points deducted from your license for a first offense.

How have child safety seat laws changed?

• Children under nine must now use booster seats, and rear-facing seats are required for children under two and below 40 pounds.

Do new gun laws affect existing concealed carry permits?

• Yes. Renewals require evidence of ongoing firearm proficiency, including passing a refresher course.

How does the updated Lemon Law impact personal injury claims?

• The law enhances buyer protections against defective vehicles, supporting claims for accidents caused by faulty cars.

Are there penalties for improper gun storage in vehicles?

• Yes. Failure to secure a handgun in a locked container within an unoccupied vehicle can result in fines of up to $500.

How can I stay informed on legal changes in Colorado?

• Our firm provides regular updates on Colorado laws and their implications for personal injury cases. Contact us for tailored legal insights.