Traffic Laws for Bicyclists in Denver

Riding a bicycle is an efficient and healthy way to travel, but sharing the road with motor vehicles carries risks. Understanding the traffic laws for bicyclists in Denver could help you ride safely and protect your rights after a collision. If a driver’s negligence causes a bicycle accident, a bicycle wreck attorney could help you understand your legal options and pursue compensation.

These accidents can cause significant medical expenses, lost income, and uncertainty about your recovery. Rosenthal Injury Law offers the personalized attention only a boutique firm could provide. You will work directly with us throughout your case, receive regular updates, and always know who is handling your claim. Our goal is to provide responsive service while aggressively protecting your interests.

State Law Treats Bicyclists as Road Users

Under state law, you have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. As a Denver cyclist, you must obey the same traffic laws, and drivers must respect your right to safely use the roadway. Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-1412 governs the operation of bicycles and other human-powered vehicles.

Some of the most important laws require you to:

• Obey traffic signals and stop signs
• Ride with, not against, traffic
• Use hand signals
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and on shared-use paths
• Use lights or reflectors (white in front, red in rear) when riding at night
• Keep at least one hand on the handlebars except when signaling

Following these requirements promotes safety and may also be important evidence in a disputed liability claim after an accident.

Where May Bicyclists Ride?

You may wonder whether you must always stay on the far right side of the road. State law generally requires bicyclists to ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge.

There are important exceptions, such as when you move away from the curb to avoid debris, potholes, or other hazards. Bicyclist traffic laws in Denver also protect you when passing another vehicle or parked car, preparing for a left turn, or traveling where there is not enough room for both a bike and a motor vehicle.

Drivers should understand that bicyclists have the legal right to move within the travel lane when necessary to operate safely.

Motorists Must Share the Road

Denver motorists have a legal duty to exercise reasonable care and follow traffic laws around bicyclists. Many serious crashes occur when drivers fail to see riders before turning, changing lanes, opening vehicle doors, or entering intersections.

Common causes of bicycle accidents include:

• Driving while distracted
• Failing to yield the right-of-way
• Unsafe lane changes
• Speeding
• Following too closely
• Opening a vehicle door into the path of a cyclist
• Making left or right turns without checking for bicycles

When a negligent driver causes a bicycle collision, you may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. In catastrophic injury cases, the state recognizes permanent impairment damages, separate from the general cap on noneconomic damages under state law.

Contact Our Denver Firm To Learn More About Bicycle Traffic Laws

Understanding traffic laws for bicyclists in Denver can help you stay safer and protect your rights if another person’s negligence causes a collision. Even if you follow every law, drivers may still fail to exercise the care required to avoid a crash.

If you suffered an injury in a bicycle accident, contact Rosenthal Injury Law today. We will explain how state law applies to your case, answer your questions, and guide you through the legal process.