Colorado Bicycle Laws

As cycling continues to gain popularity across the United States, more and more people are taking to the roads on two wheels. Colorado is no exception, with many residents and visitors choosing to cycle for commuting, recreation, or fitness purposes. However, with increased cycling comes increased risk, and it’s important to understand the laws that govern cycling in Colorado to ensure your safety and the safety of others. By keeping up with the latest bicycle laws you can protect yourself and understand your rights as a cyclist in Denver.

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Equipment Requirements

Colorado law requires all cyclists to have specific equipment when riding on public roads. Here are the equipment requirements you need to know:

• Helmets: Colorado does not have a law requiring cyclists to wear helmets. The only helmet requirement for bicycles is for electric bikes. Although you should wear a helmet to avoid a brain injury, you are not required to wear a helmet by Colorado law. Local laws passed as municipal ordinances or park rules may require some or all riders to wear helmets, such as mandatory helmets for children or minors.
• Lights and Reflectors: If you plan to ride at night or in low-light conditions, you must have a white headlight that can be seen from at least 500 feet away, a red taillight that can be seen from at least 600 feet away, and reflectors on both the front and rear of your bike.
• Brakes: Your bicycle must have at least one functional brake that can bring the bike to a complete stop on dry, level pavement.
• Bells and Horns: Your bike must be equipped with a bell or horn that can be heard from at least 100 feet away. You must use this bell or horn to alert pedestrians and other cyclists of your presence when passing.
• Seats: Your bike must be equipped with a seat that you can sit on while riding. Riding on the handlebars or top tube of your bike is not allowed.

Rules of the Road

Cyclists in Colorado are required to follow the same rules of the road as motorists. Here are some of the most important rules to keep in mind:

Lane Positioning

Cyclists are allowed to ride on the road, and must stay as far to the right as possible except when:

• Passing another cyclist or vehicle
• Preparing to make a left turn
• Avoiding a hazard or dangerous condition
• Riding on a one-way street with two or more lanes

Turning

When turning, cyclists must use hand signals to indicate their intention to other road users. Left turns should be made from the left-hand lane, and right turns should be made from the right-hand lane.

Passing

Cyclists may pass other vehicles or cyclists on the left, but only if it is safe to do so. When passing, cyclists must give an audible signal, such as using their bell or horn, and allow at least three feet of clearance between themselves and the other road user.

Traffic Signals and Signs

Bike riders must obey the rules of the road like any other roadway user. The rules for bikes are similar to motor vehicles, electric scooters and other vehicles. Bicyclists must stay to the right side of the road unless making a left turn, avoiding road hazards, or otherwise permitted by traffic control signage. Cyclists must obey all traffic signals and signs, including stop signs and red lights. When approaching a stop sign, cyclists must come to a complete stop before proceeding if there is another vehicle or pedestrian with the right of way. When approaching a red light, cyclists must also come to a complete stop and wait until the light turns green before proceeding.

Speed Limits

Cyclists are subject to the same speed limits as motorists. In areas where there are no posted speed limits, cyclists should not ride faster than is reasonable or prudent given the conditions.

Riding on Sidewalks

In Colorado, it is generally legal to ride on sidewalks, but local ordinances may vary. If you choose to ride on a sidewalk, you must yield to pedestrians and give an audible signal, such as using your bell or horn, before passing.

In Denver, bicycles generally may not ride on the sidewalk unless designated by signs or in limited circumstances like delivering newspapers. Check your local municipal ordinances before assuming it is safe to ride on the sidewalk.

Common Violations

Here are some of the most common violations that cyclists commit in Colorado:

• Riding Under the Influence: Just like motorists, cyclists can be charged with a DUI if they are caught riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This can result in fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
• Failure to Yield: Cyclists must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and must yield to motorists when entering a roadway from a driveway, alley, or other location.
• Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Cyclists must come to a complete stop at stop signs and red lights except when permitted to yield at stop signs. Running red lights and stop signs can result in fines and points on your driver’s license.
• Riding Against Traffic: Cyclists must ride on the right-hand side of the road, in the same direction as traffic. Riding against traffic is not only illegal, but it also significantly increases your risk of being involved in a collision.
• Riding Without Required Equipment: As discussed earlier, cyclists in Colorado are required to have specific equipment when riding on public roads. Riding without required equipment can result in fines and points on your driver’s license.
• Sharing lanes and lane splitting: Although many roads are wide enough to accommodate a bicycle and car, it is against the law in Colorado for bicycles to share a lane with an automobile. Two bikes can share a lane but only with another bike. Lane splitting is not permitted, either. If a car attempts to pass a cyclist, the driver must leave at least three feet of space, including mirrors and trailers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding Colorado bicycle laws is crucial for any cyclist who wants to stay safe on the road. By following the rules of the road and making sure you have the required equipment, you can minimize your risk of accidents and violations. Remember to always wear a helmet, use hand signals, and obey traffic signals and signs. If you suffer injuries in a bicycle accident in Colorado, contact our Denver bike accident attorneys for information about your rights under Colorado bicycle accident laws.

FAQs

1. Do I need a license to ride a bike in Colorado? No, you do not need a license to ride a bike in Colorado.
2. Can I ride my bike on highways? In general, cyclists are not allowed on highways in Colorado. However, there may be exceptions to this rule in certain circumstances.
3. Can I ride my bike on sidewalks in Colorado? It is generally legal to ride on sidewalks in Colorado, but local ordinances may vary.
4. Can I be charged with a DUI while riding a bike in Colorado? Yes, you can be charged with a DUI if you are caught riding a bike under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
5. Do I have to wear a helmet while riding a bike in Colorado? All cyclists under the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet in Colorado. Although not required for adults, it is strongly recommended that all cyclists wear a helmet to protect against head injuries.