Scattered across roads, streets and highways are the eerie reminders of death. The Ghost Bikes of Boulder County sit quietly out in the open, the wind, dust, and exhaust wafting over the bicycle frames evoking stories and welling up tears where a cyclist tragically died. As time passes, the bikes weather and deteriorate like the bones of a skeleton exposed to the elements. Pedal to pedal, headset to down tube, the wheels are frozen in time to commemorate those lost on a bicycle. We cannot forget who they are, how and where they died. It is our honor and duty to represent their families and loved ones as lawyers who love cycling and the Boulder cycling community.
Where did Ghost Bikes Originate?
Ghost bikes started in St. Louis, Missouri in 2003 and now there are hundreds of Ghost Bikes in over 200 locations in many countries across the world. For the creators and installers of the memorials, each death of a fellow bicyclist is a reminder that we are all at risk. Cyclists travel the same roads, face the same conditions and the same potential for disaster.
We hope to inspire more people to install ghost bikes in their communities and to initiate changes that will make us all safer on the roads.
Who Can Install Ghost Bikes?
Anyone can install a white ghost bike. You do not need a permit or permission. Usually, an old bike can be obtained from a community group, family, friends, or an individual who knew the rider. You should use a bike of little monetary value because it could be removed or stolen. The best practice is to lock or chain the bicycle to a post or sign pole to discourage displacement. Detailed instructions for painting Ghost Bikes are available online.
The Ghost Bikes
Charles Crenshaw - May 2017, 63rd and Nelson Road (sideswiped off the shoulder).
Jesse Green - March 2018, Jay Road and 75th (hit head-on without a touch of the car’s brakes).
Ralph Cook - May 2021, South Boulder Road and Manhattan Drive (hit in the intersection).
Alejandro Acosta – July 2021, Lee Hill and Wagon Wheel Road (killed when a car turned left in front of him).
Philip Frost – September 2021, Sugarloaf Road.
William Thurmes - October 2021, Airport Road and Highway 119 (hit in traffic).
What Can We Do?
Support local organizations such as Bicycle Colorado, It Could Be Me, Community Cycles, 303Cycling, and Cyclists 4Community.
Vote for city council members, and state and federal legislators that support bicycle-friendly laws.
By Stuart Mann, Esq.
the Law Office of Stuart Mann, LLC specializes in bicycle injury and wrongful death law.
What Our Clients
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During the long months that followed my bicycling accident and resulting injuries -- my bike and I were run over by an SUV driver -- Stuart Mann was my closest and most trusted advisor. I can say without hesitation, their legal guidance and representation were consistently everything a client hopes for. But just as importantly, they were exceptionally kind, compassionate, and knowledgeable partners throughout all that transpired. Really, I cannot say enough about the firm. Good humans make good attorneys, and Stuart Mann is both.-Client
When I lost my son in an automobile accident it was devastating. Stuart helped our family cope with the loss. His guidance and expertise in wrongful death cases was tremendous. He was respectful yet demanding in handling the case. While there is never enough money to bring back a lost child, Stuart made the defendants pay for their actions and recovered a huge amount of money to help our family. He did a great job.-Client
My car accident left me shattered, physically and mentally. Stuart’s offer of help came soon after I was released from intensive care, and he’s been on my side since. When you’re involved in a big accident, there are so many things you need to concentrate on, and it’s been a great comfort to know I don’t need to spend untold hours dealing with insurance companies or hospital billing departments. Thanks Stuart!-Client