While solo bicycle accidents can occur, collisions with cars and trucks pose a far greater hazard to cyclists. In a crash with a motor vehicle, a cyclist has little to no protection from the force of impact, which is why bicycle accident victims are more likely to suffer catastrophic or fatal injuries.
Motorists often cause these collisions, but identifying the at-fault party isn’t always straightforward. In some cases, the cyclist or a third party may share responsibility for the crash and the losses that follow. Understanding how liability works and what obligations everyone on the road has can help you determine whether you have grounds for a claim. A Connecticut bicycle accident lawyer from our team can help you navigate these unique circumstances.
Is a Bicycle a Vehicle?
Every state regulates bicycles and e-bikes differently, but most states categorize them as vehicles. This means bicyclists on the road must obey the rules of the road like any car, truck, or motorcycle. They must obey traffic signals, stop at stop signs, and ride in designated lanes or areas as required by state and local laws.
At the same time, cyclists often have the same rights as pedestrians on sidewalks and crosswalks, though they must generally yield to pedestrians. These laws can be tricky and vary on a local or municipal basis. For instance, cyclists in Connecticut can ride on a sidewalk, per CT Gen Stat § 14-286, but New Haven Code § 29-10 prohibits bicycles on sidewalks in the city.
As e-bike use has grown dramatically in recent years, state and local laws have become even more complex. For example, in Massachusetts, e-bikes are considered bicycles and required to obey traffic laws. However, under Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 85 § 11B3/4, e-bikes may not ride on sidewalks or “natural surface” trails unless local laws specifically permit it.
Unfortunately, even the most law-abiding cyclist can be injured by a careless or inattentive motorist. If you were injured in such a collision, consult with a bicycle accident attorney today to learn about your legal options.
When Is a Motorist at Fault for a Bicycle Accident?
Collisions with motor vehicles are the deadliest threat cyclists face. In 2024 alone, 1,103 bicyclists passed away in traffic crashes, and in many of these cases, responsibility falls on the motorist. A car or truck driver may be at fault for a collision with a cyclist if:
- The motorist was inattentive and failed to see a cyclist while backing out of a driveway.
- A motorist struck a cyclist by passing too closely or speeding past. The CDC notes that 59% of bicyclist deaths occur away from intersections, where drivers typically operate at higher speeds.
- The motorist turns and runs into a bicyclist at an intersection. About 29% of fatal bicycle crashes occur at intersections.
- The motorist is driving distracted, speeding, or running red lights. A distracted or reckless driver may fail to see a cyclist sharing the road, with devastating results.
- The motorist is driving drunk, drugged, or drowsy. Impaired judgment can cause a driver not to maintain a safe distance from a bicycle rider.
To avoid collisions with motorists, cyclists should use lights and highly visible clothing, ride defensively, and watch for motorists sharing the road. However, even careful cyclists may sustain serious injuries when a careless or reckless driver is on the road.
When Is a Cyclist Responsible for a Bicycle Accident?
Bicycles and e-bikes must obey the rules of the road. When they fail to follow regulations and take reasonable care, cyclists can be held responsible for any resulting accidents. Common factors that could put the blame on a cyclist include:
- Failing to follow traffic signals and stop signs
- Riding on the wrong side of the street
- Not riding in the direction of traffic
- Not giving a car the right-of-way at an intersection
- Engaging in negligent behaviors, like using a phone while riding
- Not riding in the bike lane when required to do so
- Not using hand signals before making a turn
- Making an unsafe lane change
- Crossing an intersection against the light
While a cyclist may share responsibility for a collision with a motorist, liability is rarely cut and dry. In many states, injured parties can share some level of fault and still pursue compensation. However, that share of fault can reduce the compensation available. Insurers know these laws and may try to unfairly blame cyclists to reduce or deny compensation.
A personal injury lawyer experienced in bicycle accident claims in your area can explain your liability and determine whether you have grounds to pursue a claim.
Collisions With Pedestrians
Bicyclists can also be held responsible for an accident with a pedestrian. To avoid a crash, cyclists should:
- Always be alert to pedestrians on sidewalks and crosswalks
- Announce yourself as you approach by saying “on your left” or using a bell
- Stop or yield to pedestrians
- Minimize sidewalk riding
- Obey local laws for sidewalk and street riding
- Be aware of e-bike limitations and requirements
A pedestrian accident lawyer can explain your legal rights after a collision with a cyclist. Reach out today for a free case evaluation.
When Is a Third Party Responsible for a Bicycle Collision?
Sometimes, a bicycle accident occurs due to conditions out of the cyclist’s or motorist’s control. In these cases, a responsible third party may be identified and held accountable. Examples of third-party liability in a cycling accident include:
- Potholes or damaged roadways make a cyclist or motorist swerve, causing a collision. A construction company or municipality responsible for damaged roadways could be responsible.
- A commercial truck operator is driving fatigued and fails to see a cyclist in the road. The truck driver’s employer may be responsible if the driver was driving beyond hours-of-service regulations or trying to meet unreasonable delivery demands.
- A defective car or bicycle component causes the operator to lose control, resulting in an accident. The manufacturer or distributor of the faulty part may be held accountable for an accident caused by the defective component.
Regardless of the cause, you benefit from having a legal professional evaluate your accident. Our lawyers can review the circumstances of your accident to determine who is liable for your damages.
Speak With a Bicycle Accident Lawyer As Soon As Possible
If you suffered life-altering changing injuries in a bicycle or e-bike collision, Trantolo & Trantolo’s bicycle accident attorneys can help you seek the compensation you deserve. We have fought for justice and fair compensation on behalf of our clients since 1938. In that time, we have recovered millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for injury victims and their families.
Our personal injury firm offers comprehensive legal support from your initial free consultation through your final settlement or verdict. If you decide to hire us, you pay nothing upfront for our services. We only recover fees and costs if we win compensation on your behalf. Contact us today for your free, no-obligation case review.
