175 cyclists traveling along southwest Colorado roadways from Aug. 18 to 22

Southwest Colorado— The Colorado Department of Transportation and the Colorado State Patrol are advising drivers to be prepared to share the road with approximately 175 bicyclists touring roadways between Silverton and Wolf Creek Pass during the annual week-long Colorado’s Ride event beginning Monday, Aug. 18. “This is the third year of welcoming Colorado’s Ride to our region, and we want to make it another safe and successful event for all roadway users. Please, always make a point to limit distractions, stay alert and follow the speed limit,” said Transportation Director Julie Constan.

Highway closures will not be necessary; however, motorists are urged to watch for cyclists along several highways and county roads between Durango, Silverton, Pagosa Springs, and Wolf Creek Pass. The event will take place over five days (Aug. 18 to 22), between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. each day.

Dates and Highway Locations:

• Monday, Aug. 18: US Highway 550 - Durango to Silverton Course
• Tuesday, Aug. 19: US 550, US 160, CO 172 & several county roads - Durango Loops
• Wednesday, Aug. 20: US 160 and CO 151 - Durango to Pagosa Springs
• Thursday, Aug. 21: US 160 - Pagosa Springs to Wolf Creek Pass
• Friday, Aug. 22: US 160, CO 151 and CO 172 - Pagosa to Durango
• View times and exact course details on Colorado's Ride Course Description Webpage.

The Colorado State Patrol and local law enforcement will monitor and assist with traffic control. Drivers are reminded of the Three Foot Law when passing cyclists. “Drivers must give cyclists at least three feet of space when passing – even if it requires crossing the centerline, if it is safe. Not doing so, could risk a ticket,” urges Capt. Angela DeGuelle, Colorado State Patrol.

The Three Foot Law

Colorado’s Three Foot Law applies to drivers to keep bicyclists safe. While passing a bicyclist, you must give them at least three feet of space. In some situations, this may mean motorists will need to cross over a double yellow line when safe to ensure three feet of space between themselves and bicyclists. If oncoming traffic prevents a motorist from giving the required three feet, the motorist should slow down and wait behind the bicyclists until it is clear to pass.

Drivers — Share the Road

• Remember that bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as passenger vehicles, including the right to use the road
• Yield to bicyclists as you would motorists and do not underestimate their speed. This will help avoid turning in front of a bicyclist traveling on the road or sidewalk, often at an intersection or driveway
• Always check your surroundings for bicyclists while in parking lots, at stop signs, when backing up, or when parking
• Drivers turning right on red should look to the right and behind to avoid hitting a bicyclist approaching from the right rear - remember they have the right of way
• Obey the speed limit, reduce speed for road conditions and drive defensively to avoid a crash with a bicyclist
• When passing a bicyclist, give them at least three feet of space. Pass as you would any other vehicle — when it’s safe to move over into an adjacent lane
• Know Colorado’s new Safety Stop Law

Safety Tips for Bicyclists

• Always wear a properly fitting helmet and protective gear while riding
• Check your brakes, tire pressure, gears, chains and hardware for wear and tear, rust or other signs of damage that can cause malfunction
• Ride as far right as possible but know you can take the full lane if needed
• Use bike lanes and paved shoulders whenever possible
• When entering intersections, yield to any pedestrians and stop before crosswalks
• Avoid alcohol and drugs when riding; they impair your abilities and your judgment
• At night, use lights and/or reflective clothing to alert other drivers and pedestrians of your presence
• Know Colorado’s new Safety Stop Law

For more information about Colorado’s Ride event, visit the event website: coloradosride.com.