The weather in Colorado is a dream come true, mild seasons allow for outdoor activity throughout the year. We all love it. However, with all these beautiful, sunny days come the cyclists. With cyclists, come the preventable car accidents.
Today we’re going over how cyclists and motorists can share the road for everyone’s safety.
The Cyclists’ Safety Responsibility
As a cyclist, there are some easy-to-follow rules to abide by, make a habit, and maintain throughout your cycling career, while on the road:
• Cyclists need to follow the same rules and laws as motorists
• Even when you “know” you don’t need to stop at that stop sign because you can see that no cars are around- stop anyway, and stop completely
• Make no sudden moves- if you cut off a car, you’re going to lose
• Signal which way you’re going and check your surroundings prior to turning or merging
Wear a helmet, bring water for those super-hot days, take breaks when necessary
• If it’s dark outside, be sure to wear light-colored clothing and have lights or reflectors on your bike and helmet (it’s smart to do this at any time of day because you may end up riding in unpredictable, darkening weather or come home later than you anticipated)
• Stay clear of parked cars, going out of your way to avoid them so you don’t get cut off by an opening door or hit when the car pulls out unexpectedly
• Stay alert at all times, have a full view of your surroundings, watch for drivers, other cyclists, and pedestrians using eye contact whenever possible
• Look out for animals, potholes, rocks, and debris on the roads
• Keep your ID, cell phone, and some cash on you for emergencies
The Motorists’ Safety Responsibility
Motorists also need to be cautious and smart when driving around cyclists and on known roads where cyclists are often found.
• Be cognizant and respectful of cyclists, they have a right to be on the road just as you do
• Slower your speed as you come upon cyclists, even if that means going under the speed limit for a few moments
• Obey all the usual driving laws while ensuring the cyclists see you, it’s always best to do this through eye contact
• Stop at all red lights and stop signs completely and use your signals so everyone knows your next move
• Be sure to keep at least three feet between you and the cyclist when you pass him/her
• Always keep a smart distance from the cyclist, use your common sense, if the bike falls over, do you have time to adequately and safely respond?
Share the Road Safely
Sharing the road can be frustrating at times, but it’s necessary for everyone’s safety. Be smart and patient and always be diligent. Pedestrian injuries in Colorado are on the rise due to smartphones, population growth, and the convenience of rentable motorized bikes and scooters in urban areas.
If you were a cyclist involved in a car accident, Thornton’s personal injury attorneys at Hull & Zimmerman would like to help. We are dedicated to getting you the compensation you’re entitled to. Call us today to find out more.
Contact Our Experienced Northglenn, CO Personal Injury Lawyers
If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident in Arvada, Northglenn, Thornton, or anywhere in Northern Colorado, you may be able to file a claim against the negligent party. It is important to contact our experienced Arvada personal injury attorneys immediately to discuss your legal options. At Hull & Zimmerman, P.C., our committed personal injury lawyers are dedicated to the belief that everyone deserves justice. Contact us at (303) 423-1770 or (866) 385-3505.
Our personal injury lawyers have extensive experience representing injured accident victims in Broomfield, Arvada, Superior, Lafayette, Louisville, Erie, Brighton, Commerce City, Northglenn, Westminster, Thornton, Longmont, and throughout Colorado.
