Helmet
True or False: Helmets are required for all ages in some U.S. states.
True – some states have laws that apply to all ages.
Are bicycles allowed to ride in the street in Colorado?
Yes – bikes are legally considered vehicles and can use streets.
What hand signal do you use to turn left?
Left arm extended straight out.
Myth or Fact: You can ride your bike on the sidewalk anywhere in Colorado.
Myth – sidewalk riding is allowed in some cities, but Denver and Boulder restrict it.
What’s the safe passing distance a car must give when overtaking a bike in Colorado?
At least 3 feet – it’s the law.
No statewide law, but helmets are strongly recommended for all, especially under 18.
Do cyclists have to obey stop signs and traffic lights?
Yes – but under the "Safety Stop" law, cyclists may treat stop signs as yield signs.
What hand signal do you use to turn right?
Right arm straight out OR left arm bent upward.
Myth or Fact: Bicycles are considered vehicles under the law.
Fact – cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers.
Can a cyclist take up a full lane in traffic?
Yes, when it's necessary for safety.
What is the most important reason to wear a helmet, even if not legally required?
To protect your head from serious injury or death in a crash.
What side of the road should you ride on?
Ride in the same direction as traffic.
How do you signal a stop?
Left arm bent downward.
Myth or Fact: You need a driver’s license to ride a bike on the road
Myth – no license is required.
Who has the right of way: a car turning right or a cyclist going straight in the bike lane?
The cyclist going straight has the right of way.
What should you check for when buying a helmet to make sure it’s legal?
Look for a CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) certification.
Is it legal to ride two abreast (side by side) in traffic?
Yes, but not if it impedes normal traffic flow.
True or False: Cyclists are required by law to use hand signals when turning.
True, unless it is unsafe to do so.
Myth or Fact: You can use your phone while biking.
Fact, but discouraged – distracted cycling can be dangerous.
Are cars allowed to drive or park in bike lanes?
No, unless making a turn or in an emergency.
True or False: A helmet is still safe to use after a crash if there’s no visible damage.
False – internal damage may not be visible; helmets should be replaced after any impact.
Name three things a bicycle must have to be street-legal at night in Colorado.
Front white light, rear red reflector, and side reflectors.
What should you do if it’s unsafe to take your hand off the handlebars to signal?
Skip the signal and prioritize control of the bike.
Myth or Fact: It's safer to ride against traffic so you can see cars coming.
Myth – it’s illegal and more dangerous.
What should you do when approaching a parked car while biking?
Ride outside the door zone and be alert for opening doors.