Bicycle-car accidents are dangerous and often deadly. This article covers typical accident scenarios, how both cyclists and drivers can avoid them, and the crucial steps to follow if an accident occurs.

Key Takeaways

• Bicycle-car accidents frequently occur at intersections, during left turns (‘left cross’), and right turns (‘right hook’), emphasizing the need for vigilance from both cyclists and motorists.
• Accidents are largely caused by motorist and cyclist behaviors, as well as infrastructure shortcomings, highlighting the importance of compliance with traffic laws and better urban planning.
• Following an accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention, file a police report, and consult a lawyer to navigate liability and compensation effectively.

Common Scenarios for Bicycle Car Accidents

Bicycle accidents often occur in specific scenarios where the interaction between cyclists and motor vehicles is most hazardous. The most common sites of accidents are:

• Intersections
• Left turns
• Right turns. Understanding these scenarios helps both cyclists and motorists anticipate potential dangers and take precautionary measures.

Analyzing these situations underscores the importance of vigilance and adherence to traffic laws to prevent fatal crashes, serious injuries, and accidents.

Intersections: A High-Risk Zone

Intersections are notorious hotspots for bicycle accidents. In 2019, 30% of fatal bicycle accidents occurred at intersections due to a mix of vehicles approaching intersections controlled by traffic signals and stop signs, including those at a minor street intersection. The frequent failure of drivers to yield and check their surroundings for bicycles, especially when backing out or making turns, significantly contributes to intersection collisions.

The high volume of two vehicles approaching at intersections heightens imminent collision risks and injury risks, necessitating vigilant driving and strict adherence to traffic laws to avoid collisions occurring, especially when vehicles arrive, a vehicle arrives, car turning, and car passes.

Left Turns: The “Left Cross” Hazard

The “left cross” accident type is a common hazard where a car turns left across the path of an oncoming cyclist. These accidents often occur because drivers misjudge the cyclist’s speed, leading to imminent collisions.

Drivers approaching intersections controlled by traffic signals or stop signs must ensure the intersection is clear of oncoming bikes before turning. Following road safety measures and right-of-way rules can prevent these types of collisions.

Right Turns: The “Right Hook” Risk

Right hook accidents happen when a driver turns right directly into the path of a cyclist who is overtaking them on the right. These accidents are particularly dangerous because they can catch cyclists off guard, leaving them little time to execute emergency maneuvers.

To avoid such incidents, drivers need to check their mirrors and blind spots for bicycles and ensure they have ample space before making the turn. Cyclists, on the other hand, should stay aware of vehicles approaching intersections and avoid riding in drivers’ blind spots.

Causes of Bicycle-Car Accidents

Bicycle-car accidents stem from a variety of causes, including motorist behaviors, cyclist behaviors, and infrastructure issues. Understanding these causes is essential for implementing effective safety measures.

Motorist behaviors such as speeding and distractions, cyclist behaviors like non-compliance with traffic laws, and poor infrastructure contribute significantly to the frequency and severity of these accidents. Each of these factors plays a role in creating hazardous situations on the road, leading to fatal crashes and reported bicyclist fatalities, including instances of bicyclist deaths and bicyclists killed.

Motorist Behaviors

Motorist behaviors are a major contributor to bicycle accidents. Speeding, for instance, reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of collisions. Distracted driving, such as using a phone, further exacerbates the risk, as inattentive drivers are less likely to notice a cyclist’s speed.

Following traffic laws and maintaining full attention while driving can significantly reduce motor vehicle crashes involving bicycles. By understanding and mitigating these risky behaviors, we can significantly enhance bicyclist safety and reduce fatal crashes.

Cyclist Behaviors

Cyclists also play a role in preventing bike accidents. Compliance with traffic laws, such as stopping at red lights and stop signs, is essential for safe cycling. Non-compliance, like running red lights or ignoring stop signs, increases the likelihood of accidents.

Poor visibility from inadequate lighting or inconspicuous gear increases cyclists’ vulnerability to collisions. Improving visibility and obeying traffic signals can significantly reduce the risk of bicycle accidents, ensuring a safer ride.

Infrastructure Issues

Infrastructure issues also significantly contribute to bicycle-car accidents. Urban roads account for nearly 80% of bicycle fatalities, highlighting the need for better urban planning and safety improvements. Poor road conditions, such as potholes and debris, pose serious road hazards for cyclists.

Bicycle-related accidents will persist until cities adopt a bicycle-friendly culture and improve their infrastructure. Changes such as better lighting, more bike lanes, and traffic calming measures can significantly enhance road safety for cyclists, bringing the bicycle closer to a safer environment.

Determining Fault in Bicycle-Car Accidents

Determining fault in bicycle-car accidents is crucial for securing compensation and ensuring justice. This process often involves reviewing each party’s adherence to traffic laws and assessing negligence, such as speeding or failing to yield. Establishing fault is essential for cyclists to claim compensation for medical costs and damages.

Understanding the legal responsibilities of both motorists and cyclists, as well as the impact of state laws, can help navigate this complex process.

Legal Responsibilities of Motorists and Cyclists

Both motorists and cyclists, as road users, share the same rights and responsibilities on the road. Cyclists must adhere to the same traffic laws as motorists, including right-of-way regulations. Compliance with these laws is crucial for maintaining road safety and determining liability in the event of an accident.

A police report provides an official record that is instrumental in legal proceedings and essential for accurate documentation of the event.

Impact of State Laws

State legislation can significantly affect how fault is assessed in bicycle-car accident cases. Some states operate under comparative negligence, allowing cyclists to claim damages even if they are partially at fault.

Understanding state-specific laws regarding liability for bicyclists hit by a car is crucial for both cyclists and motorists to navigate fault and responsibility.

Importance of Liability and Compensation

Liability and compensation are critical aspects to consider after a bicycle-car accident. Documenting the accident scene with photographs and witness contact information is crucial for future claims. Accurately establishing fault is essential, as the responsible party must cover the damages incurred.

Cyclists can file claims for damages to their bikes and equipment, which may involve the responsible party’s insurance. Understanding the importance of liability and compensation can help victims navigate the aftermath of an accident more effectively.

Personal Injury Claims

Cyclists injured in a bicycle-car collision may be entitled to sue for compensation for medical expenses and lost wages. Different states can apply varying standards of negligence, affecting how cyclists can recover damages. Cyclists often need to demonstrate negligence to succeed in personal injury claims against drivers.

A police report serves as an important document for insurance claims and legal action, providing an unbiased account of the incident. Engaging a lawyer early can help navigate the complexities of insurance claims and legal rights effectively, legally speaking.

Property Damage Claims

Claiming compensation for damaged bicycles and gear is crucial to recover costs incurred due to an accident. Cyclists often face high repair or replacement costs for their bikes and gear, making it essential to pursue property damage claims.

Gathering evidence like photos of the damage, repair estimates, and police reports is crucial for successfully filing a property damage claim. Thorough documentation can greatly aid in the claims process and ensure fair compensation.

Safety Measures to Prevent Bicycle-Car Accidents

Preventing bicycle-car accidents requires concerted efforts from both cyclists and motorists, including people bicycling. Following traffic laws and being vigilant toward each other can greatly reduce the number of accidents.

Better bike parking, more bicycle lanes, and traffic calming measures can greatly improve bicycle safety in urban areas, encouraging more bicyclists. Specific bike-safety initiatives, including the development of a bicycle lane, can enhance overall safety for cyclists and reduce fatal crashes and serious injuries.

For Cyclists

Cyclists can take several measures to enhance their safety on the road while ensuring that every cyclist rides with caution:

• A properly fitted helmet is essential, as an ill-fitted one can compromise protection in a crash.
• Wearing bright clothing during the day significantly increases a cyclist’s visibility to drivers.
• Wearing helmets and reflective gear at night also significantly increases visibility for cyclists.

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration outlines rules for riding safely, including riding in a straight line and obeying traffic signs. Staying focused on the road and using the right gear can reduce cyclists’ risk of collisions with motor vehicles, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration NHTSA.

For Motorists

Drivers play a crucial role in preventing bike accidents. They should:

• Stay vigilant for bicyclists.
• Exercise caution while sharing the road.
• Provide sufficient space while passing cyclists, akin to the clearance required for other vehicles on the road.

Adhering to traffic laws, such as yielding to cyclists and checking mirrors and blind spots before turning, can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Understanding and respecting cyclists’ presence can help motorists obey traffic laws and contribute to safer roads for everyone.

Steps to Take After a Bicycle Car Accident

In the unfortunate event of a bicycle-car accident, knowing the immediate steps to take can make a significant difference. Seeking medical evaluation is essential, even if injuries are not immediately visible. Filing a police report is crucial for documenting the accident details and may be necessary for legal and insurance purposes.

Contacting a bike accident lawyer can help sort out fault and explain legal options, ensuring that you have a qualified advocate who can fight for you to receive fair compensation for any damages incurred.

Medical Attention

Getting checked by a healthcare professional after a bicycle accident is crucial to ensure safety for several reasons:

• Even minor injuries should be assessed by a medical professional to rule out serious conditions.
• Immediate medical care is vital, as some injuries may not be apparent right away.
• Neglecting medical help can complicate future legal claims, as a lack of documentation may suggest injuries weren’t serious.

Cyclists should seek medical attention, file a police report, and contact a bicycle accident attorney following an accident.

Filing a Police Report

Filing a police report is crucial for documenting the details of an accident and may be necessary for legal and insurance purposes. Collecting witness accounts is valuable for an accurate police report and can support your case. A police report serves as an important document for insurance claims and legal action, providing an unbiased account of the incident.

Thorough documentation can greatly aid in the claims process and ensure fair compensation.

Contacting a Bike Accident Lawyer

A lawyer can help sort out fault and explain legal options after a bike accident. Cyclists are advised to contact a bike accident attorney before speaking to any insurance adjusters about the incident. Engaging a lawyer early can help navigate the complexities of insurance claims and legal rights effectively.

Contact 1-800-THE-LAW2 today for a free consultation with a bicycle accident attorney in our professional network.

Summary

Understanding the common scenarios, causes, and preventive measures for bicycle-car accidents is crucial for improving road safety. Intersections, left turns, and right turns are high-risk areas where vigilance and adherence to traffic laws can significantly reduce accidents. Both motorists and cyclists share the responsibility of maintaining safety by following traffic rules, staying alert, and practicing safe driving and riding behaviors. Proper documentation and legal guidance are essential in the aftermath of an accident to secure fair compensation for any injuries or damages incurred. By working together and implementing safety measures, we can make our roads safer for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bicycle accident injuries vary from minor scrapes to serious harm. Knowing these injuries can help you stay safe. This article reveals common bicycle accident injuries and tips for prevention.

Key Takeaways

• Common bicycle accident injuries include head injuries, broken bones, and soft tissue injuries, which can have serious long-term effects.
• Wearing a helmet and other protective gear significantly reduces the severity of head injuries and enhances visibility, helping prevent accidents.
• Following safety precautions, seeking immediate medical attention after an accident, and understanding legal rights are essential for recovery and securing compensation.

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries

Bicycle accidents can lead to severe and lasting injuries that significantly affect the lives of those involved, given that they are among the top causes of harm in both bicycle and car collisions. These incidents often result in a range of accident injuries.

The areas most frequently harmed during bicycle accidents include:

• Arms
• Legs
• Head
• Face
• Abdomen
• Neck

Such mishaps may give rise to an array of injuries from minor scrapes to critical conditions that require extensive medical treatment, including attention for hand wounds as well as musculoskeletal damage requiring prolonged rehabilitation efforts.

Awareness about common bicycle accident injuries is crucial for adopting measures aimed at ensuring safety while cycling. In what follows, we’ll delve into specific types such as head trauma, fractures, and soft tissue damage.

Head Injuries

Head injuries are a common consequence of bicycle accidents, varying in intensity from minor to critical. Bicycle incidents frequently result in mild head trauma, such as superficial scrapes, contusions, and slight lacerations. On the other hand, grave forms of head injury like skull fractures, profound cuts and traumatic brain injuries can leave enduring impacts on an individual’s well-being and day-to-day life.

The use of a helmet that fits correctly plays a crucial role in diminishing the chances of sustaining severe head traumas by up to 60% and reducing occurrences of traumatic brain injuries by approximately 53%. To helmets, wearing padded attire greatly reduces the severity level when mishaps occur while cycling. For their safety against potential fatal head wounds, cyclists should make it a routine practice to wear helmets along with other protective gear.

Enhancing one’s visibility through brightly colored or reflective garments significantly lessens accident risks for cyclists. By taking these measures, not only do bicyclists shield themselves from harmful head traumas, but they also achieve more relaxed biking experiences knowing they’ve taken steps toward ensuring personal protection.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Bone fractures and breaks are frequent consequences of bicycle accidents, typically as a result of collisions or tumbles. In these incidents, leg bone fractures are common due to the force experienced during a fall or being hit while on a bicycle. The femur—which is the largest bone in our body—often demands surgical intervention if broken during cycling accidents. Clavicle fractures stand out as particularly prevalent among cyclists involved in such mishaps, potentially leading to complex bone breakages.

In bike crashes where riders instinctively reach out an arm to cushion their descent, collarbones often sustain clavicle fractures. These types of injuries may necessitate several surgeries and prolonged recovery time, which can greatly disrupt one’s everyday life and overall well-being.

Understanding the inherent dangers and opting for proper protective attire can minimize the chances of experiencing severe injuries that could lead to intense pain and disability for cyclists.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Cyclists are frequently at risk of soft tissue injuries, which typically arise from falls or accidents while riding. A common injury among them is road rash, where skin abrasions occur due to contact with the pavement during a fall. Such an injury can cause intense pain and has the potential for infection if not adequately cared for.

Beyond road rash, cyclists may suffer from muscle and tendon damage due to sudden impacts that occur during these incidents. In cases of severe soft tissue injuries, there’s also the possibility of nerve damage that could lead to chronic pain and impair function in the long term. By being aware of these injuries and practicing cautionary measures, cyclists aim to reduce their chances of sustaining a serious injury when they’re out on their rides.

Severe Injuries and Long-Term Effects

Some injuries sustained in bicycle accidents may be relatively minor, while others are profound and can drastically alter one’s life. Over 60% of deaths related to bicycle accidents involve head injuries, underscoring the critical importance of helmet use when cycling. Between a quarter and half of injured bicyclists experience concussions or other forms of head trauma that could result in chronic cognitive issues and permanent disabilities.

Injuries incurred from a bicycle accident often lead not only to immediate harm but also long-term disability and significant alterations in day-to-day living. It’s vital for both prevention strategies and rehabilitation processes to take into account the possible enduring consequences of these types of injuries.

Subsequently, we will delve into specific grave injury types, including damage to the spinal cord as well as dental and facial traumas, plus internal bleeding or organ injury. We aim to shed light on their repercussions along with available treatment avenues.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Among the severe consequences of bicycle accidents, injuries to the spinal cord stand out as particularly catastrophic, frequently resulting in considerable challenges with movement and potentially leading to complete paralysis. Such injuries are characterized by a cessation of function below the level where the spinal cord has been damaged, profoundly affecting a person’s autonomy and mobility.

The journey to recovery for victims who have sustained spinal cord injuries is typically long and grueling, involving an extensive regimen of rehabilitation and therapy along with numerous surgeries. The enduring impact of sustaining damage to one’s spine can be transformative in nature, demanding a holistic plan for care and assistance aimed at maximizing the victim’s independence following such life-altering events.

Dental and Facial Injuries

Accidents involving bicycles can result in significant dental and facial injuries, including tooth loss and harm to the jawline, as well as other facial bones. Such incidents often involve fractured jaws and shattered cheekbones, necessitating surgical reconstruction.

Injuries to the face sustained during bicycle accidents may have enduring consequences both cosmetically and functionally, affecting an individual’s looks along with their capacity for routine tasks. Awareness of these potential injuries, coupled with wearing helmets and appropriate safety equipment, can diminish the likelihood of serious dental or facial harm.

Internal Bleeding and Organ Damage

In the aftermath of a bicycle accident, internal injuries such as bleeding and damage to organs are severe consequences that necessitate prompt medical intervention in order to stave off grave complications. Should there be internal bleeding due to an accident involving a bicycle, it may cause considerable harm to organs and typically calls for emergency surgical procedures.

It’s imperative that victims receive swift medical assessment because certain injuries might not be obvious at first glance, including internal bleeding or traumatic brain injuries. Securing immediate medical care is vital for detecting concealed injuries and averting potentially fatal outcomes.

Immediate Steps After a Bicycle Crash

Following a bicycle crash, it’s vital to prioritize your health (and your legal rights) to aid in your recovery and guarantee necessary assistance. It is imperative that you seek immediate emergency medical assistance, if necessary, and that you follow-up with medical professionals for even seemingly minor injuries. That way, you’ll obtain an appropriate medical evaluation and ward off any potential adverse outcomes. Comprehending your legal rights, along with the appropriate measures post-crash, can facilitate obtaining the requisite financial recompense for recuperation.

Various routes are available for bicyclists seeking restitution, commonly involving insurance claims proceedings. Adhering to advised protocols following a crash empowers victims as they endeavor through the complex task of claiming compensation and receiving support throughout their healing journey.

Seeking Medical Attention

It is imperative to seek prompt medical care following a bicycle accident for the sake of one’s health and well-being. Delaying an assessment at the emergency department, even for seemingly slight injuries, can lead to more severe issues.

Obtaining a medical examination after sustaining minor injuries in a bicycle accident is critical in order to avoid Problems. By prioritizing immediate healthcare, individuals ensure that they receive appropriate treatment and diminish the chance of enduring persistent complications.

Collecting Evidence

Gathering evidence at the accident site is crucial for supporting claims and enhancing legal cases. Photos taken from the scene of the accident can greatly reinforce any subsequent claims or legal actions. Obtaining contact details for witnesses is essential since their testimonies can corroborate your account of what occurred.

By meticulously recording the accident through photographs and statements from eyewitnesses, you create a robust foundation for seeking compensation.

Contacting an Attorney

It’s essential to seek legal advice swiftly following a bicycle accident in order to comprehend your entitlements and the various legal routes at your disposal. Securing the services of an attorney with expertise in bicycle accidents soon after an incident can aid in safeguarding crucial evidence and upholding your legal protections.

For a complimentary consultation with a qualified personal injury attorney within our network of lawywers, reach out to 1-800-THE-LAW2. Legal counsel assists victims of accidents in managing the intricacies involved within the judicial system and obtaining rightful recompense.

Recovery and Compensation Options for Bicyclists

Bicycle accident compensation typically encompasses medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Understanding the recovery and compensation options available can help accident victims secure the support they need for their recovery.

Next, we’ll explore types of compensation, including medical expenses and lost wages, property damage claims, and wrongful death claims, to provide a comprehensive overview of options available for accident victims.

Medical Expenses and Lost Wages

Individuals involved in bicycle accidents have the right to pursue financial restitution for medical expenses and rehabilitation fees related to their injuries as part of their compensation pursuits. Expenses incurred due to surgeries, emergency care, and continuous rehabilitation services following a bicycle accident are included within these medical costs.

Victims of such accidents can seek remuneration for income lost owing to an inability to work caused by their injuries. By obtaining monetary recompense for both healthcare expenditures and missed earnings, those affected by bicycle accidents can concentrate on healing without the additional worry of economic strain.

Property Damage Claims

Cyclists have the right to file claims for damages to their bicycles and personal belongings resulting from an accident. Compensation for property damage may cover repairs or replacements for bicycles and personal items affected in the accident.

Bicyclists can claim compensation not only for their damaged bicycles but also for any personal property that was affected in the accident. Understanding their rights and the claims process helps accident victims secure compensation for property damage and focus on recovery.

Wrongful Death Claims

When a bicycle accident leads to the tragic outcome of death, the surviving relatives are entitled to file wrongful death lawsuits in an effort to obtain reparation for their profound loss. Such compensation can cover costs associated with funerals, lost wages, and the psychological pain endured by those left behind.

It is crucial for family members mourning cyclists who have perished in accidents to be aware of their legal entitlements. This knowledge empowers them to claim appropriate damages as they seek a sense of justice on behalf of the individual they’ve lost.

Safety Precautions for Bicyclists

It is crucial for cyclists to adhere to vital safety guidelines while navigating roads alongside vehicles. Even a slight bicycle accident has the potential to cause enduring injuries that can drastically impact an individual’s quality of life. Cyclists who implement preventative safety actions can diminish the likelihood of accidents and ride with increased tranquility.

In our forthcoming discussion, we will delve into numerous protective measures such as employing appropriate protective gear, complying with traffic regulations, and maintaining vigilance during bicycle rides.

Proper Use of Protective Gear

Protective gear, including helmets and clothing with bright colors and reflective materials, lessens the risk of injuries while cycling by making riders more visible to others on the road. The use of bicycle helmets is particularly important for cyclist safety.

Cyclists who do not wear appropriate protective equipment can greatly diminish their chances of sustaining severe injuries should an accident occur.

Adhering to Traffic Laws

Bicycle riders are encouraged to make use of bike lanes whenever they are provided, as this helps prevent clashes with motor vehicles and other forms of transportation. By following traffic regulations, cyclists not only safeguard themselves but also protect fellow bicycle riders and ensure a safer environment for all involved in bicycling.

Equipping bicycles with functioning lights enhances their visibility when there is insufficient natural light, which consequently decreases the likelihood of accidents involving cyclists.

Staying Alert and Aware

Cyclists can notably diminish the likelihood of accidents by staying attentive and conscious of their environment. It is essential for them to remain vigilant, especially at crossroads, to avert mishaps. Alertness allows cyclists to adeptly steer through their surroundings and dodge possible dangers.

Summary

Bicycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor abrasions to severe, life-altering conditions. Understanding the common bicycle accident injuries, including head injuries, broken bones, and soft tissue injuries, is crucial for prevention and effective response. Severe injuries such as spinal cord injuries, dental and facial injuries, and internal bleeding require immediate medical attention and can have long-term impacts on the victims’ lives.

Taking immediate steps after a bicycle crash, such as seeking medical attention, collecting evidence, and contacting an attorney, is essential for securing the necessary support and compensation. Accident victims have various recovery and compensation options, including claims for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and wrongful death. By following safety precautions, such as using protective gear, adhering to traffic laws, and staying alert, cyclists can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and enjoy their rides safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’ve been injured in a bike crash, then the law may entitle you to significant damages as compensation. Many injury victims, especially bike riders, don’t realize that they may have a legitimate legal claim. Since you may have a legitimate claim, it’s important that you don’t assume otherwise. 

We’re here to let you know that you’re not alone. Cycling accidents are extremely common throughout the United States, and ranking high on the list are accidents where a car hits a bicycle. Do not be a statistic. We encourage you to call us at 1-800-THE-LAW2 for a free consultation. We can help you take the next steps towards a financial recovery. If you’d like to learn more a bit more about bike crash lawsuits, however, keep reading. 

What are the Chances of Getting in a Bike Accident? 

Unfortunately, it is very likely for cyclists to get into bike accidents. American drivers and roads are simply unfriendly to bicyclists thanks to decades of pro-driving policies. Accident, injury, and fatality statistics bear this out. According to the CDC, nearly 1,000 bicyclists die, and over 130,000 are injured, every year in the United States alone. That’s an enormous number! It is not hard to see just how dangerous it is for bicyclists, and just how common accidents are.  

What are Common Causes and Types of Cyclist Accidents?

Cycling accidents can be caused in variety of ways. It’s also worth noting that the most common “location” for a bike-car collision is at an intersection. Some of the most common causes include:

• Unsafe lane changes
• Blind turns
• Leaving minimal space for cyclists
• Distracted driving
• And more

Depending on how the cycling accident was caused, you’ll want to explore a lawsuit against multiple different defendants. For example, if you were injured at an intersection, it’s possible that you can sue both the driver and the City (if you can show that the traffic lights weren’t working, or that the visibility at the intersection was poor, or some other issue). 

Suing multiple defendants is an effective strategy for securing compensation, as each defendant might not have enough to cover all your losses. To explore your different options, you’ll want to work closely with a bike accident attorney who can identify the issues and possibilities clearly. 

Who is at Fault When a Car Door is Opened on a Cyclist? 

In other words: who is at fault when a cyclist gets doored? Fault is a concept in law that reflects who bears responsibility for the accident. Let’s take a moment to understand how fault might work in this accident context. 

Fault can vary depending on the specifics of the case. If the door was opened into a roadway or in an area where bicyclists are expected (or even encouraged), such as a bike lane, then the person who opened the door would almost certainly be found at-fault. Generally, when someone is opening a door into an area that is trafficked, they have a responsibility to exercise caution and avoid “dooring” others. 

If the roadway is restricted and doesn’t allow cyclists, however, then the cyclist could possibly be found at-fault. That being said, it would be an unlikely and uncommon scenario. 

Where Do Most Bike Accidents Occur? 

Most serious bike accidents occur in urban areas, and the statistics support this. According to the NHTSA, the large majority of bicyclist fatalities occurred in urban areas, with data from 2018 alone showing that 79 percent of bicyclist fatalities occurred in urban areas. That’s nearly 4 in every 5! 

How Much Space Must You Give a Bicyclist When You’re Driving a Car, Even if it Means Going Into the Next Lane to Do it? 

Some states do have specific amounts enshrined in law. For example, in California, drivers are required by law to give bike riders at least three feet of space. That being said, there is no amount of space that is considered enough in every possible situation. Drivers are supposed to give enough room to avoid a collision with the bike rider, and this can vary depending on the circumstances. In poor visibility and poor weather conditions, the driver may be expected to give more space than in better conditions. 

Failure to give enough space can lead to liability. If you were a cyclist and were not given enough space, and this led to a collision, then you could potentially sue the driver for negligence. This can give you a strategic pathway to compensation. 

It’s worth noting that the driver may try to counter this by arguing that you stayed in proximity when you should have established more distance. This is a decent argument, but you can counter it by showing that you were not aware of them passing so closely, or that you didn’t have the option to move away given other traffic. 

Contact 1-800-THE-LAW2 for a Free Legal Consultation 

Ready to pursue your bike crash claims and secure compensation? Call 1-800-THE-LAW2 for a free consultation with an experienced bike accident attorney in our network. Our attorneys have experience working with bicyclists who were hit by a car, and with those involved in other accident-related bike fails, like a right hook accident.