Denver Bike Accident Lawyers

Injured in a bicycle crash in Denver? We're experienced lawyers who fight for cyclists' rights and compensation.

Free Consultation Call 24/7

720-209-1469

We're Fellow Advocates for Colorado Cyclists

Colorado is a cyclist’s paradise—with scenic mountain routes, urban bike lanes, and a community that embraces cycling as both transportation and recreation. But when a driver’s negligence shatters your ride and injures you, it feels like a betrayal of everything our cycling community stands for. We understand that passion. We know your rights. And we fight for cyclists. At Beck Law Office, we’re not just attorneys who happen to handle bicycle accidents—we’re advocates who understand the cycling community and the unique challenges cyclists face on Colorado roads. When a driver violates the three-foot passing law, fails to check for cyclists before turning, or “doors” you while you’re in a bike lane, we know exactly what happened and how to hold them accountable. Your passion for cycling shouldn’t be destroyed by someone else’s negligence.

Bicycle Accidents Are Different from Car Crashes

From minor crashes to catastrophic injuries, we handle cases of all sizes. We know the insurance playbook, and we know how to counter every tactic. We know the law, and we know your rights. Let us fight for you.

The Devastating Physics of Impact

When a 4,000-pound vehicle strikes a cyclist:

No protective barrier exists between rider and vehicle
Higher speeds are common on roads shared with traffic
Secondary injuries occur when cyclists hit the pavement
Bicycle damage can cause additional injuries during the crash

Unique Legal Challenges

Bicycle accident cases involve specialized laws and issues:

Cyclist rights and responsibilities under Colorado statute HB22-1028 Statewide Regulation Of Controlled Intersections, SB18-144 Bicycle Operation Approaching Intersection, and HB17-1151 Electrical Assisted Bicycles Regulation Operation
Three-foot passing law violations that many drivers ignore
Right-of-way rules at intersections and bike lanes
Insurance bias against cyclists and assumption of fault

Common Misconceptions

We counter these harmful myths:

"Cyclists don't belong on the road"
"The cyclist wasn't wearing a helmet, so it's their fault"
"Cyclists always run stop signs and red lights"
"The cyclist was riding too fast/slow for conditions"

Your Rights as a Cyclist Under Colorado Law

Colorado Revised Statute C.R.S. 42-4-1412(1) Your Legal Foundation

Colorado law grants cyclists the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle operators, with specific protections:

Colorado Revised Statute C.R.S. 42-4-1412: Your Legal Foundation

Colorado law grants cyclists the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle operators, with specific protections:

Right to Use Public Roads

Cyclists are allowed to ride in traffic lanes
You can take the full lane when necessary for safety
Bike lanes are protected spaces where cars cannot travel

Three-Foot Passing Law

Drivers must give cyclists at least three feet of space when passing
This is not a suggestion—it’s the law
Violations of this law are often the cause of serious accidents

Right-of-Way Protections

Cyclists have the same right-of-way rules as vehicles
Drivers must yield when turning across bike lanes
Intersections must be navigated with cyclist safety in mind

When Cyclists Must Ride Close to the Curb

Colorado law requires cyclists to ride “as close as practicable to the right-hand curb,” BUT there are five important exceptions:

When Passing another bicycle or vehicle proceeding in the same direction
When Preparing to Turn Left – You can move to the left portion of the lane
When Road Conditions Are Unsafe, including:
- Surface hazards (potholes, ruts, debris)
- Uneven roadway surfaces
- Drain openings that could catch wheels
- Parked or moving vehicles creating hazards
- The lane is too narrow for safe vehicle passing
When Traffic is Turning Right but you intend to go straight through an intersection
On One-Way Streets with multiple lanes where you can ride near the left curb

Understanding these exceptions is crucial to your case—and insurance companies often ignore them.

Required Safety Equipment Under Colorado Law

Lighting Requirements (Sunset to Sunrise):

White light visible from 500 feet to the front
Red reflector visible 100-600 feet from behind when illuminated by headlights

Hand Signal Requirements: Cyclists must signal for 100 feet before:

Left turn: Left hand and arm extended horizontally
Right turn: Left hand and arm upward OR right hand and arm horizontally
Stop/Slow: Hand and arm extended downward

Riding Together:

Two cyclists can ride side-by-side (abreast)
Cannot impede or disrupt normal traffic flow
Must follow single-file rules when traffic requires it

Important: Helmet laws don’t apply to adults in Colorado, but wearing one can reduce injury severity and may affect comparative fault calculations.

— Immediate Investigation and Evidence Preservation —

What We Do for Bicycle Accident Clients

Specialized Investigation for Cycling Cases

Accident Scene Analysis

Measure bike lane widths and sight distances
Document traffic signal timing and bike signal phases
Photograph road conditions and potential hazards
Check for nearby business or traffic cameras

Bicycle and Equipment Examination

Inspect your bicycle for damage patterns that show impact
Analyze gear and clothing damage for injury evidence
Preserve helmet cam footage or GPS data if available
Document any equipment failures that may have contributed

Driver Behavior Investigation

Obtain driver's complete record and traffic violations
Subpoena cell phone records if distracted driving suspected
Analyze vehicle damage to determine impact speed and angle
Interview witnesses about driver behavior before the crash

Legal Strategy Tailored to Cyclists

Countering Anti-Cyclist Bias

Challenge assumptions that cyclists are always at fault
Educate insurance adjusters and juries about cyclist rights
Present evidence of driver violations of cycling laws
Combat stereotypes about cyclists and road behavior

Building Your Damages Case

Document impact on your cycling activities and lifestyle
Calculate lost wages from inability to bike commute
Assess need for specialized medical treatment
Evaluate long-term effects on your cycling ability

Protecting Against Comparative Fault

Gather evidence of your compliance with traffic laws
Document your use of proper safety equipment
Show driver's violation of three-foot passing law or other cyclist protections
Counter attempts to blame you for the accident

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Denver

Cyclists face unique injury risks due to their exposure and the dynamics of bicycle crashes. Even with proper safety gear, bicycle accidents often result in serious, life-changing injuries that require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. We investigate every factor to build the strongest possible case for your recovery.

Driver Negligence: The Leading Cause

📱 Distracted Driving

Texting, phone calls, or other device use
Not checking mirrors before changing lanes
Failing to see cyclists due to inattention

🚗 "Right-Hooking" Accidents

Driver passes cyclist then immediately turns right
Driver fails to see cyclist when making right turn at intersection
Occurs frequently at bike lane intersections

🚪 "Dooring" Accidents

Driver or passenger opens car door into cyclist's path
Common in urban areas with street parking
Often results in severe injuries when cyclist has nowhere to escape

⚡ "Right Cross" Collisions

Vehicle exits driveway, alley, or parking lot into cyclist's path
Driver pulls out at last second, blocking cyclist's right-of-way
Especially dangerous when cyclist is traveling at higher speeds

↩️ "Left Cross" Accidents

Driver turns left across cyclist's path at intersection
Driver misjudges cyclist's speed or doesn't see them
Often occurs when cyclist is going straight through intersection

Infrastructure and Environmental Factors

🚧 Poor Road Design

Bike lanes that end abruptly
Inadequate signage or lane markings
Construction zones without cyclist accommodations

🌙 Visibility Issues

Poor lighting on bike routes
Driver failure to use headlights appropriately
Weather conditions reducing visibility

🛣️ Road Hazards

Potholes, debris, or uneven surfaces
Drain grates that can catch bicycle wheels
Wet or slippery conditions

Most Common Bicycle Accident Injuries

Head and Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) despite helmet use
Skull fractures from high-impact crashes
Concussions with lasting cognitive effects
Facial injuries requiring reconstructive surgery

Lower Body Injuries

Broken collarbones from landing on outstretched arms
Shoulder separations and rotator cuff tears
Wrist and arm fractures from impact with pavement
Road rash requiring skin grafts

Upper Body Injuries

Hip and pelvis fractures from side-impact crashes
Knee and leg injuries from contact with vehicles
Ankle fractures from pedal entanglement
Soft tissue damage throughout the legs

Spinal Injuries

Compression fractures in the spine
Herniated discs causing chronic pain
Spinal cord injuries potentially causing paralysis
Neck injuries from whiplash-type impacts

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident

At the Scene (If You're Able):

Call 911 immediately - Get police and medical response
Don't admit fault - Avoid discussing who caused the accident
Document your bicycle damage - Take detailed photos of your bike
Get driver and insurance information - License, registration, insurance card
Photograph the scene - Road conditions, bike lane markings, traffic signals
Check for helmet cam footage - If you were recording, preserve the video
Identify witnesses - Get contact information from anyone who saw the crash
Note traffic conditions - Signal timing, visibility, road hazards

After Leaving the Scene:

Get immediate medical attention - Even if you feel okay initially
Contact Beck Law Office before talking to insurance companies
Preserve your bicycle and gear - Don't repair anything until we inspect it
Document your injuries - Take photos and keep detailed medical records
Track your recovery - Keep a journal of pain, limitations, and progress
Avoid social media posts about the accident or your activities
Follow all medical advice - Complete your treatment plan as prescribed

⚠️ Special Note for Cyclists: Insurance companies often assume cyclists are at fault. Don't give any statements without consulting us first.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

We understand that for serious cyclists, a bicycle accident affects much more than just medical bills—it impacts your entire lifestyle and passion.

Medical Expenses - Current and Future

Emergency room and trauma care
Orthopedic surgery for broken bones
Neurological treatment for head injuries
Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Future medical care for ongoing treatment

Lost Income and Earning Capacity

Lost wages during recovery period
Reduced earning capacity if injuries are permanent
Lost benefits including health insurance and retirement
Impact on bike commuting and transportation costs

Pain and Suffering

Physical pain and limitations
Emotional trauma from the crash
Loss of cycling enjoyment and recreational activities
Anxiety about riding or being around traffic

Other Cycling-Specific Damages

Racing or event entry fees you can no longer participate in
Cycling club memberships and social activities
Training and fitness losses affecting athletic performance
Transportation alternatives when you can no longer bike commute

Bicycle and Equipment Replacement

High-end bicycle replacement costs
Specialized cycling gear and equipment
Safety equipment like helmets and lights
Upgrades for safety to prevent future accidents

Why Choose Beck Law Office for Your Bicycle Accident Case?

Former Prosecutor's Strategic Advantage

Attorney Lori Beck's prosecutorial experience helps us anticipate and counter the defense tactics commonly used against cyclists. We know how to build compelling cases that overcome anti-cyclist bias.

We Understand the Cycling Community

We know that cycling isn't just transportation—it's a passion, a lifestyle, and often a major part of your identity. We fight to preserve not just your health, but your ability to continue doing what you love.

Specialized Knowledge of Cycling Laws

We have in-depth knowledge of Colorado cycling statutes, local ordinances, and the unique legal issues that affect cyclists. We speak your language and know your rights.

No Fees Unless We Win Your Case

Bicycle accident cases often require expert accident reconstruction and specialized medical testimony. We advance all costs and only get paid if we secure compensation for you.

24/7 Availability for Emergency Situations

We're available around the clock to start protecting your rights immediately.

Trial-Ready Reputation

Insurance companies know we have extensive trial experience and understand cycling cases. This expertise often leads to better settlement offers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accidents

Do I need to wear a helmet to recover compensation?

No. Colorado doesn’t require adult cyclists to wear helmets, and not wearing one doesn’t prevent you from recovering compensation. However, helmet use can affect comparative fault calculations if you suffered head injuries.

What if I was riding in the road instead of a bike lane?

You have the legal right to ride in traffic lanes. Cyclists are not required to use bike lanes when available, especially if the lane is unsafe due to debris, parked cars, or other hazards.

How long do I have to file a bicycle accident lawsuit?

Colorado’s statute of limitations gives you 3 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit, but you should contact an attorney immediately to preserve evidence and protect your rights.

What if the driver claims I ran a stop sign or red light?

Driver claims must be proven with evidence. We investigate thoroughly to determine what actually happened, using witness statements, traffic cameras, and accident reconstruction when necessary.

Can I still recover compensation if I was speeding on my bicycle?

Yes, you may still recover damages under Colorado’s comparative fault rules, even if you were partially at fault. The key is whether the driver was also negligent.

What if my expensive racing bike was destroyed?

You’re entitled to full replacement value of your bicycle and equipment. We understand that high-end cycling gear is expensive and ensure you receive proper compensation for your equipment losses.

Don't Let a Negligent Driver Ruin Your Passion for Cycling

You have the right to ride safely on Colorado’s roads. When a driver’s negligence injures you while cycling, you deserve full compensation that recognizes not just your medical bills, but the impact on your cycling lifestyle and passion.

We’re fellow advocates who understand what cycling means to you. We’ll fight to get you back on your bike.

Call Us 24/7

(720) 209-1469

Get Your First Consultation FREE!

We Look At The Law Differently

What Our Personal Injury Clients Say

"I am fortunate to have had Lori Beck represent me for my car accident. Everything about my case was handled professionally and I am very happy with the outcome."

Melanie Scott ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"I wish i could tell you my whole story. I was involved in 3 wrecks in less than 3 months in 2019. My attorney dropped me 2 months before trial. I called over a 110 attorneys and then Ms lori Beck. Called and said i will help you. She saved me. She took on my cases along with her regular load and did an amazing job."

Gloria Hodge ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Lori helped me more than I had expected. Value definitely exceeded the dollar here."

Derick Brown ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Serving Colorado's Cycling Community

Beck Law Office represents bicycle accident victims throughout Colorado’s cycling corridors and urban areas:

Popular Cycling Areas We Cover:

Denver’s Urban Bike Network – Protected lanes, sharrows, and bike boulevards
Boulder County Trails – Multi-use paths and mountain biking areas
Colorado Springs Cycling Routes – Urban and recreational cycling areas
Fort Collins Bike Infrastructure – Extensive bike lane and trail network

Our local knowledge of Colorado’s cycling infrastructure, laws, and community gives our clients a distinct advantage.