Bicycle accidents, whether they involve cyclists colliding with a car or a car hitting a cyclist, are not uncommon. In fact, the number of preventable deaths from bicycle transportation incidents increased by 53% over the last decade.
These accidents can lead to serious injuries, property damage, and lasting trauma. If you’ve been injured in a bike accident, you may wonder who is at fault and whether or not insurance kicks in.
We’ll break down the basics of bicycle accidents and explain how the aftermath plays out, whether you are a biker or a driver.
Key Takeaways:
- Bicycle Accident Statistics: Preventable bicycle-related deaths have increased by 53% in the last decade.
- Auto Insurance Coverage: Typically covers cyclists’ injuries and damages when the driver is at fault.
- Cyclist Liability: If the cyclist causes the crash, homeowner’s, renter’s, or cycling-specific insurance may apply.
- Claim Process: Document the accident with a police report, photos, witnesses, medical care, and notify insurers.
Does Auto Insurance Cover Bicycle Accidents?
In many cases, car insurance does cover bicycle accidents, even though the injured party isn’t driving a car. If a motor vehicle driver hits a cyclist, causing a car accident, their liability coverage typically pays for the cyclist’s injuries and property damage. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs related to the bicycle personal injury claim.
On the other hand, if the cyclist is at fault, for instance, running a red light and hitting a car, insurance depends on the specifics of the cyclist’s own coverage. For example, some cyclists have personal liability protection through their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance that may come into play.
What Insurance Covers Bicycle Accidents?
Here’s a quick overview of the common types of coverage that may apply in the case of a bicycle accident:
- Auto Insurance: Covers the cyclist’s injuries and other damages if the driver is at fault.
- Homeowner’s or Renter’s Insurance: May cover damages if the cyclist is at fault and hits a pedestrian or a vehicle.
- Cycling-Specific Insurance: Some cyclists carry policies that include coverage for theft, damage, and liability.
- Health Insurance: Health insurance often pays for medical treatment regardless of fault, but doesn’t cover property damage or lost income.
How to Claim Insurance After a Bike Accident
Filing a bicycle accident insurance claim starts with documentation.
- Call the police and get an official accident report.
- Collect evidence by taking photos of the scene, your bike, any vehicles involved, and visible injuries if it is safe to do so.
- Get witness information through the form of contact information and statements. These can help support your version of events.
- Seek medical attention right away, even if the injuries seem minor.
- Notify the relevant insurance providers, whether that’s your own or the driver’s/
If you’ve been injured, you may also be eligible to file an accident claim, which can help you recover damages for pain and suffering or lost wages.
DM Injury Law Offers Legal Help with Your Bicycle Accident Claim
Filing a bicycle accident claim can be stressful. In scenarios like these, faults are often disputed, and insurance companies may push back on covering expenses. That’s where our team of experienced attorneys steps in.
We help clients pursue fair compensation and navigate the complexities of insurance coverage. Don’t let others dictate your outcome. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.