Bicycle Safety Tips and Rules of the Road - City of Longmont Skip to main content
Placeholder image

Bicycle Safety Tips and Rules of the Road

Rules of the Road 

“Rules of the Road” features commonly known and not so commonly known rules and regulations that motor vehicle drivers and bicycle riders should be aware of so they can safely coexist.

Featured Rule of the Road for May 2022:

“No pedestrian shall suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and ride a bicycle, ride an electrical assisted bicycle, walk, or run into the path of a moving vehicle that is so close as to constitute an immediate hazard.”  – State of Colorado 2020 Model Traffic Code Section 802(3)

Stay Safe as Temperatures Change

Make sure you’re prepared for the changing temperatures and conditions as we head into warmer weather. 

  • Temperature: this can vary tremendously even in a short ride! It may be a good idea to wear clothing that covers your knees when it’s 65 degrees or below, and I recommend always carrying a light jacket in Colorado, which may keep you comfortable during a descent, or in the event of wind, light rain, etc.   
  • Sunscreen: it’s best to apply before dressing so you don’t get those distinct lines on skin that may be exposed when your body is in “ride” position.  I carry an extra lip/face SPF 50+ stick and re-apply to nose and lips frequently. 
  • Hydration: drink before you’re thirsty. Know if/where water is available at your destination. 
  • Nutrition: unless you’re headed for a bakery/coffee shop/farmers market destination, it’s always good to throw a bar in the bag; but hitting a great destination for a well-deserved goodie is always a nice treat, and there are so many in our area! 

The Colorado Safety Stop is Now Law in Colorado 

Colorado’s new Safety Stop Law, signed by Governor Jared Polis last month, changes the way that people on bicycles, walking, rolling, and driving interact at stop signs and signalized intersections. The law has many nuances and will require regular education to get all street users on the same page. View a PDF of the new law