Hit While Riding? Get Matched With a Bicycle Accident Attorney.
Cyclists have the same right to the road as drivers — and the same right to fair compensation when a driver's negligence causes injury. Get matched with an attorney, free.
Understanding Bicycle Accidents
Cyclists are among the most vulnerable road users. With no metal frame, airbags, or seatbelt for protection, even a relatively low-speed collision with a motor vehicle can cause serious injury. Bicycle accidents often happen at intersections, in bike lanes, or when a driver fails to check for cyclists before turning or opening a car door — and injured riders are frequently left dealing with significant medical bills and a damaged or destroyed bike.
Because many people mistakenly assume cyclists share equal blame simply for being on the road, insurance companies sometimes push back harder on bicycle accident claims than on typical car-versus-car crashes. An attorney experienced in cyclist injury cases knows how to establish driver negligence clearly, using traffic laws, right-of-way rules, and physical evidence from the scene.
If you were injured while cycling — whether on a road, in a designated bike lane, or on a shared path — you may be entitled to compensation from the at-fault driver's insurance, and in some cases from a government entity if a road hazard contributed to the crash.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
'Dooring' accidents
A parked car's door opening into a cyclist's path is a frequent and often serious cause of injury.
Right-hook and left-hook collisions
Drivers turning across a cyclist's path without checking bike lanes or oncoming cyclists.
Failure to yield at intersections
Cyclists have the right of way in many of the same situations as other vehicles, which drivers sometimes ignore.
Unsafe passing distance
Many states require drivers to leave a minimum distance when passing cyclists; violations can cause sideswipe collisions.
Road hazards
Potholes, debris, and poorly maintained bike lanes can cause a cyclist to lose control, sometimes into traffic.
Common Injuries
Every case is different, but people injured in a bicycle accident frequently experience:
- Traumatic brain injury and concussion
- Road rash and skin injuries
- Fractures, especially of the collarbone, wrist, and arm
- Spinal injuries
- Facial and dental injuries
- Soft tissue and joint injuries
Who Can Be Held Liable?
A negligent driver
Most bicycle accidents involve a driver who failed to yield, turned unsafely, or was distracted.
A government entity
Poorly designed or maintained bike infrastructure can create liability for a city or county.
A commercial entity
Delivery drivers or company vehicles involved in a crash can create employer liability.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Medical expenses
Costs of emergency treatment, orthopedic care, and rehabilitation.
Bicycle and gear replacement
Compensation for the damaged or destroyed bike, helmet, and other equipment.
Lost wages
Income lost while recovering from injury.
Pain and suffering
Compensation for physical pain and disruption to daily life and activity.
Legal Issues Unique to Bicycle Accidents
Right-of-way and bike lane laws
Traffic laws specific to cyclists vary by state and city, and understanding them is often key to establishing fault.
Assumption of shared blame
Insurers sometimes unfairly assume cyclists contributed to the crash. Scene evidence and traffic law analysis can counter this.
Hit-and-run cyclist collisions
Cyclists are unfortunately common victims of hit-and-run incidents, which may require pursuing uninsured motorist coverage.