Countless people have discovered the value of riding their bikes in Colorado, whether as a mode of transportation or for exercise or pure enjoyment. Unfortunately, the number of bicyclists killed or injured on Colorado’s roadways is staggering. According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, there have been 112 bike fatalities in Colorado since 2010 and over 8,000 serious injuries during that same period. According to Boulder Vision Zero, there were 255 serious cyclist injuries in Boulder alone from 2009-2019.
When motorists and cyclists know how to safely share the road, it goes a long way to preventing an accident.
How Can Motorists and Cyclists Share the Road?
The number one tip for sharing the road, both for the motorist and the cyclist, is to know the law. The laws may vary from city to city, so it is essential to know the cycling laws and motorist laws where you bike or drive. For example, the City of Boulder’s cycling laws include the following:
- Bicyclists may not exceed 8 mph in crosswalks.
- If using a multi-use path, bicycles may not exceed 15 mph, unless otherwise noted.
- Cyclists may not wear headphones or earbuds while biking.
- A white light at the front of the bike and a red light at the tail of the bike is mandator if riding before dawn or after dusk.
- While motorists must yield to cyclists and pedestrians, cyclists must yield to pedestrians.
Tips to Help Motorists Avoid Cyclists
- Do not be a distracted driver. Avoid using cell phones, fiddling with car controls, and anything that takes your eyes off the road.
- Always look out for cyclists and pedestrians and keep track of them in your rear-view and side-view mirrors.
- When passing a cyclist, put at least 3 feet between your car and the bike. It is ok to cross a double yellow line, but it is important to wait until it is safe to do so.
- Understand that cyclists are only required to ride as far right as is considered safe.
Tips to Help Cyclists Stay Safe
- Cyclists must ride with the flow of traffic.
- Obey traffic laws, especially since a bicycle is considered a vehicle.
- Signal your intention to turn.
- Obey all speed limits.
Important Information
Following these tips will go a long way to preventing a bicycle crash; however, if a crash should happen, it is important to contact a personal injury lawyer who is experienced in bicycle accidents, like the attorneys at Debbie Taussig Law. Debbie and her team will fight the insurance companies and get you the compensation you deserve so that you can heal and protect your future. Call her at 303-442-0176 for a free claim evaluation.
