Happy Trails Without Headaches & Heartbreaks

The picturesque scenery around Boulder beckons bikers and hikers throughout the summer months. Whether you are going for a ride or heading out for a hike, it is important to take precautions before your trip to ensure your safety. The more you prepare, the less likely you are to suffer a bicycle accident or serious personal injury on the trail.

PLAN YOUR ROUTE

The City of Boulder, the State of Colorado, and the National Park Service are responsible for maintaining many of the bike paths and hiking trails in the area. You should always check with the overseeing authority for trail conditions before heading out and should know which trails are undergoing maintenance, and which might be unsafe due to weather or other factors. Under the Federal Tort Claims Act, government entities can be held liable for premises liability when they fail to properly warn or protect the public from injuries.

WATCH THE WEATHER

Colorado’s weather is notoriously unpredictable and you should know whether rain, wind, lightning, or other events are in the forecast. Always make sure you have the gear you may need and watch the weather closely during your trip. Moreover, know the places along your route where you can seek shelter if it starts to storm.

CHECK YOUR GEAR

Many pedestrian accidents and injuries are caused by equipment failures. Always check your bicycle, helmets, ropes, boots, etc. for damage that could cause an equipment malfunction. If you find damage that can’t be effectively repaired, replace the item rather than pushing your luck. Likewise, make sure that your bicycle, helmet, jackets, etc. have reflective strips or flashers as these can make it easier for motorists to see you as you travel down the path or bike route.

TRAVEL IN GROUPS

Traveling in groups provides a significant amount of protection. If you are injured during your trip, members of your group can administer first aid and seek help if necessary. This is especially important if you are heading into the mountains where emergency medical responders may be a considerable distance away. If you do decide to head out on your own, always be sure to let friends and/or family in the area know where you are going and when you expect to return.

If your trip down the happy trails resulted in an injury, contact a Boulder personal injury attorney at Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C. for a free case review.