What Cyclists Should Know About A Bicycle Accident With A Car
September 15, 2025
Cycling is so freeing. The open road, the breeze, and the sense of adventure as you ride through the city can serve as a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of life.
But in the blink of an eye, that freedom can come to a screeching halt when a bicycle accident with a car occurs. A moment of carelessness, and suddenly, you’re faced with injuries, confusion, and an overwhelming set of decisions.
What happens next? How do you protect your rights? Knowing the right steps to take after a crash can drastically impact the outcome of your recovery, both physically and financially. This article breaks down everything a cyclist should know to prepare for the unexpected and take action when it matters most.
What Happens in a Bicycle Accident with a Car?
A bike accident with a car occurs when a cyclist collides with a motor vehicle. Due to the size and speed of cars, cyclists are often at a higher risk of serious injuries in these accidents. In fact, a crash involving a bike and a car can result in a wide range of injuries, and in some cases, even death.
Cyclists have the same legal rights as other road users, but because they’re more vulnerable, the laws around bicycle accidents can be complicated. Whether you’re the cyclist or the driver, the immediate aftermath of the accident often involves determining fault, securing medical attention, and ensuring that the incident is properly documented.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Bicycle Accident with a Car
When a driver hits a bicycle with a car, the first few steps can impact the outcome of your case and the compensation you receive. Here are the immediate actions you should take.
Check Your Safety
Before anything else, make sure that both you and anyone else involved are safe. Move to a safe area, away from traffic, to avoid further accidents. If you are injured, remain as still as possible until medical help arrives.
Call for Medical Assistance
Even if injuries seem minor, call 911. Many injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated. Receiving prompt medical attention helps preserve your health and also documents your injuries, which is important for your claim later.
Document the Scene
Take photos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, any visible injuries, and your bike. If possible, collect the names and contact details of witnesses who saw the accident occur. These pieces of evidence will play a significant role in proving liability.
Do Not Admit Fault
It’s natural to feel the urge to apologize or explain what happened, but be mindful that doing so could be misinterpreted as an admission of fault. Simply provide the necessary information and let the police handle the determination of fault.
File a Police Report
A police officer will document the details of the accident, including any statements from you, the driver, and witnesses. This report is an important piece of evidence for your case.
Determining Liability
Determining who is at fault in a bike accident with a car can be complicated. The key question is whether the driver of the car or the cyclist is responsible, or if both parties share responsibility.
In some cases, the driver of the car is at fault due to factors such as speeding, failing to yield, distracted driving, or disregarding traffic laws. However, cyclists can also be found at fault if they were not following traffic laws, such as running red lights or riding in prohibited areas.
The role of a bicycle accident lawyer is to investigate the accident thoroughly, gathering evidence to establish who was at fault. The lawyer will analyze police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and expert opinions to build a strong case for the cyclist.
Common Injuries Cyclists Sustain in Car Accidents
The physical injuries resulting from a bicycle accident with a car can range from minor to life-threatening. The following are some common injuries that cyclists usually sustain.
Head and Brain Injuries
Cyclists involved in accidents with cars are at risk of traumatic brain injuries (TBI), especially if they’re not wearing a helmet. Even mild TBIs can cause long-term cognitive, emotional, and physical effects.
Broken Bones and Fractures
The force of a collision can break bones in areas such as the legs, arms, pelvis, and ribs. In some cases, fractures may call for surgery as well as extensive rehabilitation.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, with long-lasting consequences that require ongoing care and rehabilitation.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Muscle sprains, ligament tears, and road rash are common, especially if the cyclist is thrown off the bike during the accident. Soft tissue injuries may seem minor initially but can lead to chronic pain and mobility issues.
Handling Insurance Claims
After the accident, one of the first steps in securing compensation is to file an insurance claim. There are a few things cyclists should understand about dealing with insurance companies after an accident.
Who Pays for the Damages?
In many cases, the at-fault driver’s insurance will cover the cyclist’s medical bills and property damage. However, if the driver is uninsured or underinsured, the cyclist’s own insurance or personal injury protection (PIP) may need to cover the costs.
Insurance Company Negotiations
Insurance companies are notorious for offering lowball settlement offers or trying to shift the blame onto the cyclist. Having a lawyer on your side can help ensure that the settlement you receive covers the full extent of your injuries and damages.
The Role of an Attorney
Our Atlanta bicycle accident lawyers from Henningsen Injury Attorneys are experienced in negotiating with insurance companies, handling paperwork, and collecting and presenting all the necessary evidence. If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are ready to fight for justice in court.
The Legal Process
If your case cannot be settled through insurance negotiations, a lawyer will guide you through the legal process, which can include filing a lawsuit and going to trial. The lawyer will present a compelling case for compensation, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and represent you in court.
Your lawyer will also handle communication with the insurance company, making sure that you are not pressured into accepting an unfair settlement. Additionally, the lawyer will document your medical treatment and other losses accurately, helping you secure the best possible outcome.
Preventing Bicycle Accidents with Cars
While this article has focused on what to do after a bicycle accident with a car, it’s just as important to take steps to prevent these accidents in the first place. Cyclists can reduce their risk by following basic safety tips.
Wear Protective Gear
Always wear a helmet, knee pads, and reflective clothing to increase your visibility on the road. In case of a collision, having a helmet can minimize the risk of head injuries.
Adhere to Traffic Laws
Obey traffic signals, use hand signals to indicate turns, and always ride in the designated bike lanes when available. These precautions help cyclists stay safer on the road.
Stay Visible
Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially when riding at night. Additionally, equip your bike with lights to improve visibility to drivers.
By following these precautions, cyclists can significantly reduce their risk of accidents. Even in the unfortunate event of a collision, taking these steps can help demonstrate that the cyclist was not at fault.
Handling the Aftermath of a Bicycle Accident with a Car
Being involved in a bicycle accident with a car can be a life-altering experience. With the right legal help, you have all the support you need to deal with the aftermath.
Henningsen Injury Attorneys specializes in helping cyclists recover the compensation they deserve after a crash with a car. If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, reach out for a free case consultation. Let us guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.
