Do You Need a Front License Plate in Colorado?
Each state has specific rules on whether drivers are required to have front license plates. A front license plate could improve safety. It would help identify vehicles in accidents, like hit-and-runs. Colorado law requires that all drivers have front and rear license plates on their vehicles. This is specified under Colorado Revised Statute section 42-3-202. This specific statute requires that all vehicles have a numbered plate attached to them. The license plate should also have the proper registration year sticker attached and be visible on the plate at all times.
What Vehicles Are Required To Have A Front License Plate In Colorado?
Under the statute, vehicles that are required to have a front license plate include:
- Passenger vehicles: this includes standard-sized cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks
- Commercial vehicles: this includes vehicles that are used for business purposes
The two types of vehicles above that need a front license plate in Colorado generally make up the majority of vehicles on the road.
What Vehicles Do Not Need A Front License Plate In Colorado?
Some vehicles do not require a front license plate; instead, they have a back license plate. These vehicles include:
- Motorcycles
- Trailers: this includes boat and utility trailers
- Custom vehicles: custom vehicles may require specific registration but do not necessarily require front license plates.
- Farm vehicles: these include vehicles such as tractors that are used on a farm
Above are some examples of vehicles exempt from having a front license plate.
What Are The Benefits Of Having A Front License Plate?
A front license plate displayed usually points to public safety and convenience for law enforcement. For example, below are some reasons why states enforce a front license plate:
- Vehicle identification: when law enforcement tracks down vehicles, having a front license plate makes it more accessible. For example, when law enforcement officers review surveillance footage, having a front and back license plate on a vehicle helps them identify the vehicle. This helps law enforcement. It also helps witnesses of a car accident. They could track down the vehicle by identifying the front license plate.
- Toll roads: Colorado has several toll roads, including the US 36 express lanes and the I-70 mountain express lane. The toll roads depend on the time of day and traffic congestion. To enforce tolls, vehicles are easily identified with their front license plates.
- Vehicle pursuits: When law enforcement is pursuing a vehicle, having a front license plate makes it easier for them to track it down through surveillance cameras.
- Parking lot accidents: A vehicle that has backed into a parking spot may not have its back license plate visible. A front license plate could help nearby witnesses identify the vehicle in the event of a parking lot accident.
Many states have chosen to require front license plates due to their safety standards. Some may find it costly, but it helps law enforcement track vehicles after a pursuit, theft, or accident.
What Are The Fines For Not Having A Front License Plate In Colorado?
If you drive a vehicle that must have a front license plate, you may receive fines if you fail to follow the law. The fine for failure to have a front license plate will typically be classified as a class B traffic infraction and carry a fine of up to $100. Repeated offenses could lead to a driver’s license suspension.
For more information on Colorado vehicle laws, contact the Colorado personal injury attorneys at Matos Personal Injury Lawyers. If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident, this law may be to your benefit. Call us for more information.
Contact an Experienced Lakewood Car Accident Attorney For Help With Your Claim
If you’ve been injured in Lakewood, CO, and need legal help, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Matos Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
Matos Personal Injury Lawyers – Lakewood Office
550 S Wadsworth Blvd, Suite 300, Lakewood, CO 80226
(720) 807-1602
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