Colorado Safety Stop

The Colorado Safety Stop is intended to increase safety on behalf of people that ride bikes and other vulnerable road users at intersections regulated with traffic signals and STOP signs.

The law does two things: it turns the red phase of signalized intersections into STOP signs, and it turns STOP signs into YIELD signs for people operating bikes and low-speed conveyances.  The law stipulates that individuals 15 years of age and older may initiate “safety stops,” but those under 15 must be accompanied by an adult in order to initiate a safety stop legally.  Above said, what is a “safety stop?”

Red Phase of Signalized Intersections (Red Light Controlled Intersection)

If you are approaching a red light on a bicycle or a “low speed conveyance” such as a scooter, a low-speed electric vehicle, a toy vehicle, or an electric personal assistance mobility device (EPAMD), you are required to come to a complete stop, yield to all other traffic and pedestrians, and once it is safe, you may cautiously proceed in the same direction through the intersection or make a right-hand turn.  However, you may not proceed through the intersection if an oncoming vehicle is turning or preparing to turn left in front of you.  Lastly you may only make a left turn at a red light if you are turning onto a one-way street and only after stopping and yielding to other traffic and pedestrians.

STOP sign Controlled Intersection

If you are riding a bicycle or low speed conveyance and you are approaching a STOP sign controlled intersection, you are required to slow to 10 miles per hour or less.  As you approach the intersection assess whether it is safe to proceed through the intersection without stopping.  If it isn’t safe, then you must stop and yield the right of way to other road users.
On the other hand, if you’ve slowed to a reasonable speed and have yielded the right-of-way to other vehicles and pedestrians if required, you may cautiously make a turn or proceed through the intersection without stopping if it is safe to do so.

When in doubt

If you’re unsure about what do to under a specific scenario, simply obey the red light or STOP sign as you always have.

Tips for Bicyclists

• Ride responsibly. If you drive your car safely, why not be sure to do so on your bike?
  
  
• Equip your bike correctly. Headlights and red rear reflectors are required if riding after sunset.
  
  
• When riding on paths or sidewalks, be aware of pedestrians. Slow down; stop if necessary. Let them know that you are passing.
  
  
• When riding in the street, be aware that many motorists are not used to driving around cyclists. Some of them honk because they are afraid of hitting you. In this situation, be courteous. Gestures and name calling are inappropriate. Instead, wave and smile.
  
  
• Wear your helmet! Head injuries are devastating and wearing a helmet can prevent head injuries.
  
  
• Be aware of changing road conditions. A little rain can make a BIG difference in the slickness of a road surface.
  
  
• Keep your bike well-tuned.

• Encourage new cyclists to ride safely. Show them safe routes and teach them how to make riding a weekly or daily habit rather than an annual tradition.

• One may ride a bicycle anywhere in the city. As always you should take into consideration your destination and riding ability when selecting your route. The above said, there is a “Mandatory” Dismount Zone in the 6th Avenue Plaza (6th Avenue west of Main Street through the Plaza to the parking lot). There is a “Voluntary” Dismount Zone on Main Street sidewalks between 3rd Avenue and 6th Avenue which also includes the east and west breezeways within this area. In the Voluntary Dismount Zones please be mindful and considerate of people walking.
  
  

Safe Bicycling!