Bicycle Accidents
Navigating bicycle accidents in Colorado
In the sunny streets of Colorado, bicycles offer a convenient and eco-friendly way to navigate the cityscape. However, their rising popularity comes with an increased risk of accidents.
Bicycle accidents in Denver and across Colorado are frequently caused by the negligence of motor vehicle drivers. The urban environment and dense traffic conditions create significant hazards for cyclists, who are inherently more vulnerable due to their exposure and smaller representation on the road
Legal Help in Colorado is dedicated to supporting victims of bicycle accidents, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.
Colorado laws are designed
to protect cyclists
The law requires that drivers in Colorado report to the police any car accident that causes injury, death, or property damage. Police departments can determine their response to minor accidents where no apparent injuries occur. In addition, drivers must provide reasonable assistance to anyone who was injured in the accident, including calling emergency services if necessary. Depending on the circumstances, this may involve rendering aid by transporting or making necessary preparations to ensure that such individuals receive medical or surgical treatment from a physician, surgeon, or hospital.
Laws that protect cyclists:
Colorado enforces laws that require drivers to maintain a safe passing distance when overtaking bicycles, typically three feet. The state also mandates that all road users, including cyclists, adhere to traffic signals and signage.
While Colorado does not have a statewide law requiring adult cyclists to wear helmets, it strongly encourages their use and many cities have their own regulations, especially for minors, to ensure safety.
The state and many local jurisdictions have invested in infrastructure to promote cycling safety, such as designated bike lanes and paths that are separate from vehicle traffic.
Colorado law allows cyclists who are injured due to the negligence of others to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. This is critical in providing financial relief and justice to victims of bicycle accidents.
In Colorado, not only are vehicle drivers required to carry liability insurance that covers potential damages or injuries to cyclists, but this coverage extends to include scenarios involving bike rentals. This ensures that cyclists, whether they own their bikes or are renting, can claim compensation for recovery and repairs in the event of an accident caused by a motorist.
Many recreational cyclists also carry their own car insurance that may cover them in the event that they are hit by a car, even though they were riding a bicycle and not in their own vehicle at the time.
Common causes of bike accidents
Bicycle accidents in Colorado often result from distracted driving, where motorists fail to notice cyclists, and failure to yield, especially at intersections. Speeding, reckless driving, and poor road maintenance, such as potholes and debris, can cause cyclists to lose control. Weather conditions, like rain or snow, also decrease visibility and traction, leading to accidents. Understanding these common causes is crucial for preventing accidents and establishing liability.
Failure to observe right of way
Distracted driving
Dooring
Poor visibility
High-traffic areas
Who is at fault for a
bicycle accident?
Determining fault in bicycle accidents in Colorado requires a thorough understanding of state traffic laws and the specific circumstances surrounding the incident. Fault determination follows similar principles but accounts for nuances specific to each type of vehicle.
Understanding Colorado's law on negligence
Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that a party can recover damages only if they are less than 50% at fault for the accident. The amount of compensation awarded will be reduced by their percentage of fault. For instance, if a cyclist is found to be 30% at fault in an accident with a car, and the damages amount to $10,000, the cyclist could recover 70% of the amount, or $7,000.
Understanding and proving fault is critical not only for recovering damages but also for implementing preventive measures to reduce future accidents. As such, whether you’re a scooter rider or a cyclist in Colorado, knowing your rights and responsibilities can be pivotal in the event of an accident.
Accidents involving rental bikes
Accidents involving bicycles from rental companies such as Bird, Lime, Lyft, Razor, and Spin may present challenges in establishing liability. Because these rental companies typically have customers sign a liability waiver, it may be difficult to establish liability.
In certain cases, it may be possible to establish fault if a rented bicycle accident involved a negligent driver and resulted in injuries or hospital bills. While the rental company is typically not at fault due to carefully crafted liability waivers, it’s possible the driver may owe compensation of medical bills to the rider. This depends on a number of factors, so it is best to contact one of our experienced bicycle accident attorneys as soon as possible following such an incident.
Help in Colorado doesn’t want to add additional financial burden following your bicycle accident, which is why you won’t owe us a dime unless your case wins!
Bicycle accident lawyers in Colorado
Navigating the aftermath of a bicycle accident can be overwhelming. Legal Help in Colorado specializes in personal injury cases involving cyclists and scooter users. Our Denver bicycle accident attorneys understand the specific nuances of Colorado traffic laws and are adept at handling claims that involve complex liability issues and severe injuries.
Whether negotiating with insurance companies or representing clients in court, our goal is to ensure that victims are not financially burdened by accidents caused by others’ negligence. We work tirelessly to secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact Legal Help in Colorado today to get the support and representation you deserve.
Knowledgeable. Compassionate. Dedicated.
We are your personal injury team.
Available 24/7 to take your call: (720) 743-3682