Due to its sunny weather, emphasis on activity, and plentiful cycling trails, Boulder, CO, has a robust cycling culture. Travel Magazine named it in the Top 13 Cycling Cities in the US. Though incredibly popular, cycling in Colorado is not without dangers. Cyclists in Colorado have consistently been the most likely to suffer a serious injury in the event of a bicycle accident.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, most bicycle accidents are caused due to collisions with motorists. Exercising vigilance, utilizing proper safety tactics, and knowing Colorado cyclist laws can not only help prevent bicycle accidents, but in the event of one, it can help create a strong legal case as you fight for compensation.
Here are must-know cyclist laws in Colorado.
You Can’t Bike Everywhere in Boulder, Colorado
Despite having hundreds of miles of biking trails and areas, there are some places where you’ll need to get off your bike. Dismount zones can be found around the city, particularly in the downtown areas of Pearl Street Mall and the University Hill commercial area.
Biking in these areas, despite the dismount zone, may make you susceptible to injury and hurt the chances of claims should you be in an accident. Make sure to follow road signage wherever you are.
Watch Your Speed!
On multi-use paths, cyclists must limit their speed to up to 15 miles per hour. Failure to do so may result in you being liable for injuring someone else or suffering injury yourself.
Make Sure You Can Be Seen and Aren’t Distracted
Colorado’s biking law ensures cyclists have a white light on the front of their bikes and a red reflective light on the back when riding after dusk. Also, it is illegal for cyclists to have headphones or earbuds while riding.
Notify 911 in the Event of an Emergency Accident
In an emergency, you must report the accident to 911. Not only is this the law, but it will also make sure injured parties get the care they need and will provide a report that can be helpful should you need to pursue a personal injury claim.
Find Bicycle Accident Representation in Boulder, CO
Though knowing a few pertinent laws can help, it would be impossible to know all of them. Hiring a knowledgeable firm with plenty of experience is an excellent way to give yourself the best support while filing a personal injury claim due to a bicycle accident.
At Jeffress Law, PC, attorney Christopher Jeffress has advocated for people for over 25 years. If you need a personal injury lawyer and live in or near Boulder, Fort Collins, Longmont, or Loveland, CO, contact Jeffress Law, PC, for a consultation. Call 303-993-8685 today.
