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Written by Remington Fang
Bicycling through Denver’s busy streets offers a sense of freedom as riders move among cars, intersections, and changing traffic patterns. Yet when a crash happens, one question often arises: “Do bicycles have the right-of-way?” The answer can determine who is legally responsible and how fault is assigned.
Understanding Colorado’s right-of-way laws matters for staying safe, avoiding collisions, and protecting your rights on the road. At Fang Injury & Accident Lawyers Denver, we help injured cyclists handle the aftermath of accidents and pursue fair compensation when a driver’s carelessness causes harm.
Bicycle accidents remain a major problem across Colorado, even with better safety awareness. The latest data from the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) shows that 21 pedestrians and cyclists have already died on Colorado roads this year, and that number keeps rising as new reports arrive. While this represents a 38% drop for now compared to last year, it underscores the ongoing dangers facing vulnerable road users (VRUs).
These numbers are a reminder that every ride involves real risk, particularly in high-traffic areas and crowded intersections throughout Denver. Construction zones, poor visibility, and distracted driving make conditions worse, even on roads with designated bike lanes. Despite Denver’s continued investment in safer cycling infrastructure, crashes keep happening when motorists don’t yield, swing doors open into bike lanes, or make sudden dangerous turns. The results can be catastrophic, causing severe injuries like broken bones, concussions, or permanent spinal damage.
Bicycles have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles when traveling on Colorado roads. Cyclists must obey traffic signals and signs just like drivers, and they also receive specific protections when using designated bike lanes. According to C.R.S. § 42-4-714, drivers must yield to bicyclists legally riding in a bike lane. Not doing so may lead to a Class A traffic infraction, and if a crash happens, the driver may face a careless driving charge. This law helps answer one of the most common questions riders ask: Do bicycles have the right-of-way in every situation?
Bicycles have the right-of-way in several situations, including:
There are also times when bicycles must yield the right-of-way. Cyclists must stop at red lights and stop signs, even when the road appears clear. Similarly, a bicyclist entering a roadway from a sidewalk or private driveway must yield to oncoming traffic. When pedestrians are in a crosswalk, cyclists should slow down or stop completely to let them pass safely.
These right-of-way laws keep Denver’s roads safe by making clear when cyclists have priority and when they must yield. Both drivers and bicyclists share the responsibility to stay alert, follow traffic rules, and ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
Determining liability in a bicycle accident depends on who violated traffic laws or failed to act with reasonable care. Fault is not always clear, and multiple parties may share responsibility depending on the circumstances of the crash. In Denver, several groups could be held liable:
Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which allows an injured bicyclist to recover damages if they are less than 50% at fault. However, the compensation awarded will be reduced by the cyclist’s percentage of responsibility. For example, if a rider is found 20% at fault, their recovery will be reduced by that same amount. This system ensures accountability while acknowledging that accidents can result from mistakes on both sides.
Even with safety laws in place, prevention remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of injury. Cyclists and drivers alike can protect themselves and others by following these best practices:
By taking these steps, cyclists can significantly reduce their risk and help promote safer roads throughout Denver.
A bicycle accident can create lasting physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Questions about medical bills, fault, and insurance often arise, including one many riders ask: Do bicycles have the right-of-way after a crash? Understanding those laws and protecting your rights takes experienced legal guidance.
At Fang Injury & Accident Lawyers Denver, we represent cyclists injured by careless or distracted drivers. Our team investigates the crash, gathers evidence, and pursues compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs.
For clear legal support and a path toward justice, call 720-379-6363 or contact us online for a free consultation. We are committed to helping Denver cyclists rebuild and return to the road safely.
A Colorado Springs native with a lifelong passion for standing up to bullies, Remington fights for the injured against corporations that put profit over people. Raised in a family devoted to service and healing, he brings compassion and grit to every case.
A graduate of the University of Northern Colorado and the University of Arkansas School of Law, Remington has recovered millions for clients with Fang Injury & Accident Lawyers Denver. He believes no injury should silence the human spirit — and he won’t stop fighting until justice is served. See Remington in AVVO.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. It was approved by Remington W. Fang, our Founding Partner, who brings over 10 years of experience as a personal injury attorney.
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