Driving in Colorado

It is recommended that you read the Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles' (DMV) Driver Handbook to familiarize yourself with driving in the United States since the traffic laws and rules of the road can be very different from those of other countries.

Owning and driving a automobile comes with some major responsibilities. Please review our Car and Driver Information Packet to assist you with your decision to purchase and drive a car in the United States.

Many drivers have not experienced driving in slippery conditions or extreme cold until they moved to Colorado. The How to Go on Ice and Snow guide produced by the American Automobile Association (AAA) gives useful tips to be prepared for winter driving.

Driver Responsibilities

Seat Belts

Wearing seat belts is mandatory for the driver and any front seat passengers. All children sixteen years old or younger are required to be properly fastened with a seat belt or a child restraint system appropriate for their age and weight. It is highly recommended that every occupant of a vehicle wear a seat belt at all times since it is one of the most effective ways to lessen or prevent injuries in the event of an accident.

The Colorado Department of Transportation provides Car Seat Guidelines to ensure that all vehicle occupants especially children are properly secured in their seats.

Using Cell Phone While Driving

Colorado law prohibits drivers from sending or reading text messages while driving. Drivers under eighteen years of age are prohibited from texting or talking on a cell phone.

Owning an Automobile

Automobile Insurance

Colorado state law requires car owners to maintain automobile liability insurance that provides coverage in case of accident, death, or injury. You may purchase insurance that provides for the minimum required amounts only, or you may choose to purchase coverage that provides for higher amounts. Many car owners also purchase collision insurance to cover damage to their own vehicle and/or comprehensive insurance which covers other types of loss such as from storms or vandals.

Purchasing Automobile Insurance

When you speak to an insurance salesperson, you will be asked a number of questions to determine the type of coverage you would like to purchase. You should be notified of the minimum amount of liability insurance required by Colorado law and given the opportunity to purchase higher amounts. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of your automobile insurance coverage before agreeing to a plan. We also recommend requesting quotes of estimated costs for coverage from several different companies before purchasing a plan.

Insurance Providers

There are a number of insurance providers in the Denver metro area. Neither the University nor International Student and Scholar Services endorses a particular company or insurance plan. When purchasing insurance, carefully consider your personal insurance needs and be prepared to discuss the services you would like to receive with an insurance salesperson.

Insurance Provider	Toll-Free Phone Number
Allstate	866-621-6900
Farmers Insurance Group	800-327-6377
Geico	800-861-8380
Nationwide	877-669-6877
Progressive	800-776-4737
State Farm	800-782-8332

The purpose of this web page is to provide a broad overview of the subject. It should not be considered an authoritative resource. No company listed above is affiliated with or endorsed by the University of Denver.