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Bicycle Safety
Riding a Bicycle on the Road in Colorado * Be courteous, share the road and obey all traffic laws, signs and signals. * Ride on the shoulder (if one exists) or on the right side of the road, unless:
* When riding next to parked cars, allow enough space between your bike and the cars so that you do not have to suddenly change lane position if a car door is opened. * You may ride two abreast when doing so does not impede the flow of traffic. * When riding curving canyon roads without bike lanes or shoulders, play it safe and ride single file. * Signal for turns 100 feet in advance, unless you need both hands to brake or control your bicycle. * At night, ride with a white front light and a red rear light or reflector. * Yield to pedestrians. If a person driving a motor vehicle behaves aggressively or dangerously, dial *CSP (*277) from your cell phone to reach the Colorado State Patrol. You’ll need to provide the vehicle license plate number (mandatory), location and direction of travel, vehicle and driver description and a description of the aggressive behavior. Signaling Communicating your intentions not only makes your ride safer, but it is required by law in the United States. Left Turn: Fully extend your left arm out to the side Right Turn: Fully extend your right arm out to the side or bend your left arm up at a right angle with your hand flat. Slowing or Stopping: Extend your left arm out at a right angle with your hand open | Positioning at an Intersection Since most crashes happen at intersections, be sure to reduce your risk by being visible, positioning yourself clearly on the road and making eye contact with other drivers. When you are coming up to a multi-lane intersection, you will want to be in the right-most lane that is traveling in the direction you are going. Where you are within the lane depends on the intersection. Video courtesy of The League of American Bicyclists. Riding a Bicycle on a Bike Trail or Multi-Use Path The video above, by The League of American Bicyclists, reviews important responsibilities of riding on a bike trail to keep yourself and others safe. IMBA Rules of the Trail The International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) developed the following Rules of the Trail to help promote responsible and courteous riding on shared-use trails. Ride Open Trails: Respect road and trail closures- clarify ahead of time if you are uncertain about the status of a trail. Never trespass. Leave No Trace: Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage than dry ones. Don't cut switchbacks. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in. Control Your Bicycle: Inattention for even a moment could put you and others at risk. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations, and ride within your limits. Yield Appropriately: Do your utmost to let your fellow trail users know you're coming- a friendly greeting or bell ring are good methods. Try to anticipate other trail users as you ride around corners. Bicyclists traveling downhill should yield to ones headed uphill. Bicyclists should always yield to pedestrian traffic. In general, strive to make each pass a safe and courteous one. Never Scare Animals: Animals are easily startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement, or a loud noise. Give animals enough room and time to adjust to you. Plan Ahead: Know your equipment, your ability, and the area in which you are riding and prepare accordingly. Strive to be self-sufficient: keep your equipment in good repair and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear. |
