Colorado Injury Attorney Explains Colorado Bicycle Laws

One of the best ways to avoid a bike accident is by following the bicycle laws of your state . Bicycles are considered a vehicle, just like any other car on the road, but bicycle riders have specific laws that apply to them in Colorado.

Before setting out on your next bike ride, be sure to familiarize yourself with the laws in your area to avoid a ticket, or even worse, an accident. Here, a Colorado injury attorney breaks down the most important bicycle laws:

• every person riding a bicycle must follow and adhere to the same rules as a vehicle driver;
• a bicycle may not carry more than 1 person at a time unless specifically designed or equipped to do so;
• bicycle riders are not allowed to attach themselves to any motor vehicle on a roadway;
• when on the road, bike riders must remain in the right-hand lane, except when preparing for a legal left turn or avoiding road hazards;
• when riding in groups, cyclists may ride single file only in the right lane , except when riding on paths or roadways that are meant exclusively for bicycle recreation;
• a bike rider must keep at least 1 hand on the handlebars at all time;
• if a bicyclist is planning to make a legal left turn, he or she must use hand signals to make other drivers aware of the intent;
• when riding a bike on a sidewalk or pathway, riders are required to yield to pedestrians;
• a bicyclist should not be required to ride on a roadway without a reasonable safety margin on the right-hand side of the road;
• if riding on a one-way road, a bike rider may ride on the far left-hand side;
• bikes may be parked on the sidewalk as long as they do not impede others, unless a posted sign directs otherwise;

• when using an official crosswalk, riders must dismount from their bicycles and walk them through the intersection ; and
• riders under the age of 18 are required to wear helmets when operating a bicycle.

Failing to follow the laws can result in serious consequences, such as injuries and even death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 500,000 people in the U.S. visit the emergency room for bicycle-related injuries every year, and more than 700 people die from these injuries.

The American Academy of Family Physicians states that the most common injuries from an accident on a bike may include:

• cervical strains, plus neck and back pain;
• fractures, dislocations, strains;
• concussions;
• contusions;
• eye trauma;
• internal bleeding;
• loss of, or broken, teeth;
• abrasions or “road rash;” and
• swelling and bruising.

 

If you were hurt on your bike because of the negligence of another, you may be entitled to compensation. These types of injuries may cause you to be unable to work or require extensive medical care. A Colorado injury attorney can help you file a claim to get the assistance you need.

Contacting a Colorado Injury Attorney

The Law Office of D.J. Banovitz prides itself on giving honest, straightforward answers to your questions and concerns after you’ve been seriously injured in a bike accident, car wreck, slip and fall, or other type of personal injury accident. When another’s negligence causes you harm you deserve to know the truth about your rights and options in a personal injury claim.

To learn more about how injury attorneys matter in preserving your personal injury claim, request a FREE copy of our book, 7 Costly Mistakes that Can Ruin Your Colorado Injury Case . When you’re ready, contact us for a FREE consultation – 1-303-300-5060.