Cycling is a Colorado staple. Riding a bike is a popular, healthy, and eco-friendly way to commute or explore the scenic streets and trails of our great state. But as more cyclists share the road with vehicles, the risk of serious accidents increases. In fact, bicycle crashes can happen in an instant — often leaving riders with severe injuries and lasting trauma. While bicycle accidents result in the lowest number of traffic-related fatalities, in 2023, they were still responsible for 20 deaths in the state — a number we’d like to see further reduced.
Understanding the most common types of bicycle accidents and how to avoid them can give you a big leg up the next time you pedal out onto the streets or trails. And remember — even though Colorado law doesn’t require riders to wear a helmet, it’s still always a good idea. Here are the most frequent types of cycling accidents and what you can do to reduce your risk.
Read More: 7 Reasons You Need a Personal Injury Attorney After an Accident
A “right hook” accident occurs when a vehicle passes a cyclist on the left and then makes a sudden right turn across the cyclist’s path, often at an intersection or driveway. These accidents typically happen when drivers fail to check their blind spot or misjudge a cyclist’s speed.
How to avoid it:
Stay visible and ride in a straight, predictable line. If you approach an intersection and notice a car beside you preparing to turn right, slow down and fall behind the vehicle. Never assume a driver sees you, even if you have the right of way.
In this scenario, an oncoming car turns left in front of a cyclist traveling straight through an intersection. This type of crash is one of the most dangerous types of bike accidents, often caused by drivers misjudging the cyclist’s speed or failing to see them altogether.
How to avoid it:
Approach intersections cautiously and be prepared to brake. Make eye contact with drivers whenever possible to confirm they see you. Using a front light—even during the day—is a key bicycle accident safety tip that can help increase your visibility.
A dooring accident happens when a parked car’s door is suddenly opened into a cyclist’s path. These incidents often lead to serious injuries, especially if the cyclist is thrown into traffic.
How to avoid it:
Ride at least 3–5 feet away from parked cars when possible. Stay alert and watch for passengers inside parked vehicles who may be preparing to exit. In narrow bike lanes, slow down and be extra cautious when passing parked cars.
Cyclists can be rear-ended by drivers who are distracted, following too closely, or speeding, especially in low-visibility conditions like dusk or fog. These crashes are often severe due to the cyclist’s lack of protection.
How to avoid it:
Always use a bright rear light and wear reflective gear, especially at night or during poor weather. Ride in a straight line and avoid sudden stops when possible. If traffic allows, take the full lane to increase your visibility.
Side-swipes occur when a driver passes too closely, striking a cyclist or forcing them off the road. These types of crashes are especially common on roads without bike lanes or wide shoulders.
How to avoid it:
Ride defensively and use a rear-view mirror to monitor approaching vehicles. If you notice a car veering too close, adjust your position or safely move to the sidewalk if it’s legal and available. When possible, choose routes with designated bike lanes.
While not always the fault of another person, potholes, loose gravel, and debris can cause cyclists to lose control and crash, especially at high speeds or in low-visibility conditions.
How to avoid it:
Scan the road ahead and ride with both hands ready to brake or maneuver. Report dangerous road conditions to your local transportation authority. Consider wider tires or a suspension system for better handling on rough roads, and use a light when riding at night.
Many accidents occur when drivers exit driveways or parking lots and fail to spot a cyclist approaching on the sidewalk, bike lane, or edge of the road.
How to avoid it:
Slow down when passing driveways and stay vigilant for vehicles pulling out. Ride defensively and assume that drivers may not see you, especially if you’re approaching from the right.
Bike accidents don’t always involve cars. Group rides or congested trails can lead to collisions between cyclists, especially when communication is poor or riders are inexperienced.
How to avoid it:
Communicate clearly with hand signals and verbal warnings. Maintain a safe following distance and stay to the right, passing on the left only when it’s safe. Always verbally communicate to other riders when passing. Keep your speed under control, especially around blind corners or on busy paths.
Even when cyclists take every precaution, accidents still happen. And when they do, it’s imperative to understand your rights as a cyclist. Bicycle safety laws in Colorado protect cyclists as vulnerable road users, and you may be entitled to compensation if you’ve been injured due to a driver’s negligence, unsafe road conditions, or another hazard.
Learn Your Rights As a Colorado Cyclist
At Bowman Law, we understand the unique risks cyclists face and the physical, emotional, and financial toll a bicycle accident can take. Our experienced team is dedicated to protecting the rights of injured cyclists throughout Colorado. We bring compassion, clarity, and strength to every case we handle, and we’re ready to help you get the justice and assistance you deserve.
We pride ourselves on our client-focused approach, clear communication, and relentless pursuit of what’s right. Whether you’re navigating insurance claims or pursuing compensation through a personal injury lawsuit, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t face the aftermath alone. Call us today at 720-863-6904 or send us a message to schedule your free consultation. Let our top-rated Colorado personal injury attorneys fight for your rights, protect your interests, and deliver the justice you deserve.
Owner and Managing Attorney
Jerry Bowman, J.D., M.A., Owner and managing attorney of Bowman Law LLC, takes his responsibility to the legal profession seriously and dedicates his time and effort to providing quality and competent legal representation to clients in Denver and throughout all of Colorado. He holds an MA in Political Science from Wayne State University and earned his law degree in two and a half years from Michigan State University College of Law.
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