Colorado is home to some of the world’s most scenic views, and many people often ride their bicycles on Colorado’s biking trails and bike paths to explore the natural beauty. With the growing number of bicyclists on the roads, both motorists and bicyclists should take greater precautions to ensure everyone’s safety. However, despite a bicyclist’s efforts to take all necessary precautions, a bicyclist cannot control how a motorist drives on the road.
Unfortunately, sprains, fractures, and road rash are some of the injuries that can occur as a consequence of bicycle accidents. Also, cyclists are sometimes severely injured or lose their lives due to a driver’s negligence, especially if the cyclists weren’t wearing protective gear or if their bicycles weren’t properly equipped with reflectors. If you have been hit by a vehicle while riding your bike, contact the attorneys at Tipton Law for a free consultation.
Bicycles, by their very design, expose riders to the road – especially when contrasted to other modes of transportation like cars, vans, buses, and trucks. In general, bikes are more difficult to see on the road and require regular balance by the rider to avoid toppling over. To help keep you safe and visible to other drivers while on your bike, Colorado laws have set certain requirements regarding how your bike should be equipped. Specifically, the front of your bike should have a white light that is visible from at least 500 feet away and should be turned on after sunset. Also, the back of your bike should have a red reflector and the sides of your bike should also have reflective material, both visible from at least 600 feet away.
With regard to operating your bicycle, you must keep at least one hand on the handlebars at all times. Further, if you are going at a slower rate of speed than the normal speed of traffic, you must ride in the right-hand lane. It is also crucial to be alert while riding and to be mindful of surrounding road hazards.
Although Colorado does not require people riding non-electric bikes to wear a helmet, regardless of age, wearing one can protect you from serious injury and liability. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), a majority of bicycle accident deaths stemmed from head injuries. However, wearing a helmet can lower your chances of getting a head injury by 50%, and lower your chances of a face or neck injury by 33%.
You shouldn’t have to go through the devastating impacts of a bicycle accident alone. The attorneys at Tipton Law can help guide you through your claim and help get the money you need so you can focus more on your physical and mental recovery. Call Tipton Law today to schedule a free consultation and receive a free case evaluation.
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