Bicycle Crashes
The number of bicycle crashes has remained relatively steady in Fort Collins over the past four years.
Most Bicycle Crashes Occur at Intersections
- Right Turning Motorist vs. Bicyclist Riding Against Traffic
- Overtaking Turn or “Right Hook"
- Approach Turn
Right Turning Motorist vs. Bicyclist Riding Against Traffic
Tip for Motorists: Always check to the right even when turning right.
Tips for Bicyclists:
- Don’t ride against traffic
- Avoid riding on the sidewalk - if you must ride on the sidewalk slow to walking speed to cross intersections, driveways, alleys etc.
- Obey the rules of the road
Overtaking Turn or “Right Hook”
Tip for Motorists:
- Right turns should be made from a position as far to the right as possible. It is legal (and correct) to enter a bike lane when making a right turn provided you first yield to any bicyclists using the lane.
- Prepare for your turn in advance. Check for bicyclists ahead of you and behind you as you approach to ensure it is safe to move over to the right. Use your turn signal to indicate your intent to turn.
Tips for Bicyclists:
- Don’t pull up to the right of a motorist that is giving clear intent to turn right (signaling, slowing etc.)
- Understand the law and know that right turning motorists may use the bike lane. Wait behind right turning traffic or, if there is adequate room and you are proceeding straight, pass to the left of the right turning traffic.
Approach Turn
Tip for Motorists:
- Know the rules of the road. Left turning traffic must yield to all other traffic – including bicyclists.
- See bicyclists. In a roadway environment, many motorists are conditioned to watch only for other motor vehicles and completely miss bicyclists and even motorcyclists. Watch a fun demo of this 'conditioned' issue.
Tips for Bicyclists:
- Don’t follow too closely to other vehicles while going through an intersection. Opposing left turning motorists may not be able to see you.
- Use lights at night and other methods to enhance your visibility to motorists. Don’t take visibility for granted.
