What Are Your Rights as a Cyclist in Colorado?

Cycling is incredibly popular in Colorado, offering both health benefits and an eco-friendly alternative to driving. However, sharing the road with motor vehicles is often dangerous, and cyclists face risks from inattentive drivers and unclear road-sharing expectations. It should come as no surprise that Colorado bicycle laws provide specific protections for cyclists. Understanding these rights is essential to ensuring your safety and protecting yourself legally in the event of an accident. 

Laws Protecting Cyclists in Colorado

Colorado has enacted several laws to protect cyclists and clarify their rights on the road. No matter the frequency of your rides or if you use your bike for leisure, commuting, or competition, knowing these bicycle laws can help you stay safe and advocate for your rights if an accident occurs.

1. The Right to Ride on the Road

In Colorado, bicycles are legally considered vehicles, meaning cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. Cyclists are allowed to ride on most roadways unless a local ordinance or signage prohibits it.

However, cyclists must:

• Ride as far to the right as practicable, except when passing, avoiding hazards, or preparing to turn left.
• Ride no more than two abreast, unless it does not impede traffic.
• Obey all traffic signals, signs, and right-of-way rules.
• Use indicatory hand signals 100 feet before turning, merging, or stopping.
• Keep at least one hand on the handlebars at all times.

2. Bike Lane Laws in Colorado

When a designated bike lane is available, cyclists are encouraged — but not required — to use it. Motor vehicles are prohibited from obstructing bike lanes, and drivers must yield to cyclists before crossing or merging into a bike lane.

3. Safe Passing Law (Three-Foot Rule)

Colorado law mandates that motor vehicles provide at least three feet of space when passing a cyclist. This law is designed to prevent accidents caused by close or unsafe passing. Drivers are allowed to cross a double yellow line to give cyclists the required clearance if it is safe to do so.

4. Intersection and Crosswalk Protections

Cyclists must follow the same traffic laws as motor vehicles at intersections, including stopping at red lights and stop signs. However, the Colorado Safety Stop Law, which was passed in 2022, allows riders 15 and older to treat stop signs as yield signs and red lights as stop signs, so long as the intersection is clear and right-of-way for other road users is not being violated. 

If riding on a sidewalk or crosswalk where permitted, cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as pedestrians. However, they must yield to pedestrians at all times and provide an audible signal (such as “on your left”) when passing. In addition, many official traffic control devices and local ordinances require bicycle riders to dismount before entering a crosswalk or sidewalk.

5. Helmet and Equipment Requirements

While Colorado does not have a universal helmet law for cyclists, wearing a helmet is highly recommended for safety. Other bicycle safety laws require:

• A white front light, red rear reflector, and side reflectors when riding at dusk, dawn, or night.
• A working brake that allows the bike to stop within 25 feet from a speed of 10 mph.

6. DUI Laws for Cyclists

Just like motor vehicle operators, cyclists in Colorado can be charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) if they ride a bicycle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. This law is in place to increase safety and prevent accidents caused by impaired riding.

What to Do if You Are Involved in a Bicycle Accident

Despite following all safety measures and obeying traffic laws, accidents can still happen. If you are injured in a bicycle accident due to a negligent driver, you have legal rights and options to pursue compensation.

Related: Colorado Hit-and-Run Accidents

1. Seek Medical Attention

Your health should always be your top priority. Even if you feel fine after the accident, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Seeking medical attention ensures proper treatment and creates a record of your injuries.

Related: The Importance of an MRI After an Accident 

2. Call Law Enforcement

It’s important to report all accidents to the police so they can document the scene and determine fault. Make sure to get a copy of the police report, as it could be valuable for your legal claim.

3. Gather Evidence

If you are able, collect evidence at the scene, including:

• Photos of the accident, your bicycle, and any visible injuries.
• Contact information of witnesses.
• The driver’s name, insurance information, and license plate number.

4. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Alone

Insurance companies may try to minimize or deny your claim. Avoid providing a recorded statement without consulting a bicycle accident lawyer who can protect your rights and ensure fair compensation.

Related: Busting Common Myths About Personal Injury Cases

5. Contact a Bicycle Accident Lawyer

An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process, determine liability, and pursue the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Protect Your Rights as a Cyclist — Contact Bowman Law

At Bowman Law, we understand the risks cyclists face and the challenges they encounter after an accident. When a negligent driver causes harm, you shouldn’t be alone in your fight for justice. Our top-rated Colorado accident lawyers are dedicated to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you need to move forward.

With a commitment to transparency, integrity, and client-focused advocacy, we provide personalized legal support with compassion every step of the way. From investigating your accident to negotiating with insurance companies — or taking your case to court — we work tirelessly to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are upheld.

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t wait to seek legal guidance. Call us at 720-863-6904 or send us a message to schedule a free case evaluation. Your rights matter — let us help you protect them.