Bicycle Safety Bill Becomes Law!

Governor Owens signed the Bicycle Safely Bill into law in early June and with the stroke of his pen, Bicycle Colorado and bicycle-advocates statewide achieved another important victory at the Colorado legislature this year.

The Bicycle Safety bill (House Bill 1218), sponsored by Representative Greg Brophy (R-Wray) and Senator Ron Tupa (D-Boulder), passed the House and Senate this spring.  The House approved the bill by a vote of 41-21 and the Senate approved the safety bill 27-6.

The bill makes three common-sense changes that will simplify bike laws, protect the safety of road users, and bring Colorado in line with laws in other states.  This bill permits bicyclists to ride two-abreast when not impeding traffic, allows bicyclists to indicate a right turn with their right arm, and gives cyclists the same protection as pedestrians enjoy while in a crosswalk.

Here’s what the changes mean for you:

Side by Side

Bicyclists may now ride side by side if not impeding the normal and reasonable flow of traffic. On roads with wide paved shoulders or good bike lanes, bicyclists may ride together. Always pay attention for debris or potholes which will cause you to return to single file. On roads without a shoulder, always check for cars before riding side by side. Use courtesy and single up, allowing cars to pass.

Right Turn

You may now use either a bent left arm or extended right arm to signal a right turn. Remember: 1. Scan for cars 2. Signal your move 3. If clear, proceed. Most motorists understand if you point to where you intend to go. Skill practice: Use a quiet street or empty parking lot to practice signaling while riding one-handed (remember your helmet!) Then practice smooth braking while signaling.

Crosswalks

If riding on a bike path or sidewalk, always obey traffic signals and signs when crossing a road. Scan for cars from all directions. Remember, many drivers forget to look for bikes and pedestrians at intersections. If clear, ride at walking speed being sure to yield to pedestrians. Continue looking for cars and making eye contact with drivers.

Crash Reports

The bill also requires all law enforcement agencies to file a bicycle crash report even if the crash did not involve a motor vehicle. Crash statistics determine where road safety improvements occur and less than 1% of safety money improves roads for bicyclists. If you are injured in a bike crash due to unsafe road conditions or unsafe drivers, please report it to your local police agency.

Thanks to everyone who called and emailed your elected officials during this process!  Hearing directly from concerned citizens drew extra attention to the importance of this relatively short bill. 

Feel free to reprint and share this info with your bike club and friends as long as you reference Bicycle Colorado as the source (www.BicycleColorado.org).

View the History of the Bicycle Safety Bill