At Jeffress Law, PC, our attorneys have decades of experience advising accident victims and have seen how seasonal conditions contribute to serious mishaps.
If you’re a year-round rider, knowing what to watch for can help you stay safe and support any future personal injury claim should you get hurt. Here are five hazards to be aware of this winter.
1. Ice and Black Ice
Snow may be easy to spot, but black ice is nearly invisible. It often forms on shaded bike lanes or near intersections and crosswalks. Even seasoned riders can go down hard on hidden ice, leading to broken bones, concussions, or worse.
2. Slush and Poor Drainage
Melting snow and slush can create slippery, unstable surfaces. Poorly drained streets or bike lanes can disguise potholes, making steering unpredictable. Water mixing with road salt and grime can also reduce traction and increase brake wear.
3. Decreased Visibility
Shorter daylight hours, fog, and snow flurries can make it harder for both drivers and cyclists to see clearly. Add in frosty windshields or distracted drivers rushing to get out of the cold, and you have a recipe for collisions.
4. Inattentive or Aggressive Drivers
Winter driving is already stressful. When drivers are cold, late, or worried about road conditions, they’re more likely to make reckless moves. That includes speeding, failing to yield, or not checking bike lanes before turning. In these situations, cyclists are often the ones who pay the price.
5. Maintenance Neglect
City snowplows tend to clear major roads first, leaving bike lanes and sidewalks untreated. Riders are often forced into car traffic or onto rough shoulders, increasing their risk of being sideswiped or hitting debris.
What to Do After a Winter Cycling Accident
If you’ve been injured in a winter biking accident, documenting conditions and your injuries quickly is crucial. Seek medical attention right away and take photos of the scene if possible.
It’s also important that you avoid speaking with insurance adjusters until you’ve consulted a personal injury attorney. An experienced professional, like those at Jeffress Law, can assess your case and help you decide how to proceed.
Injured While on the Road? Call Jeffress Law
Don’t let winter hazards derail your recovery. Call Jeffress Law at 303-993-8685 or text us at 303-225-9101 to schedule a free consultation. We serve clients in the Boulder, Fort Collins, Longmont, and Loveland areas.
