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Protect Your Rights After a Bicycle Accident

Posted in Accident & Injury, Automobile, Car Accident, Motorcycle Accident, Truck Accident on June 11, 2025

Injured cyclist lying next to a damaged bike after an accident with a car

Bicycle Accidents Are on the Rise: What Cyclists Need to Know

Biking offers a great way to stay active, save money, and cut down on traffic, but it’s not without risk. As more people take to the streets on two wheels, the number of serious accidents involving bikes and motor vehicles continues to climb.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 2022 was the deadliest year on record for cyclists. A total of 1,105 pedalcyclists were killed by motor vehicles in traffic crashes, more than any year since national records began in 1975. An additional 46,195 cyclists were injured, marking an 11 percent increase from the previous year.

Source: NHTSA

Who’s Most at Risk?

The crash data paints a clear picture of who’s being hit the hardest:

  • 83 percent of cyclist deaths occurred in urban areas

  • Men were six times more likely to be killed than women

  • The most dangerous hours were between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., especially on weekends

  • Alcohol played a role in more than a third of fatal crashes

  • Riders ages 55 to 64 had the highest death rate by population

Notably, the data now includes crashes involving motorized bicycles and e-bikes, which may be contributing to the increase in fatalities.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Many crashes happen when:

  • Drivers make unsafe turns or open doors into traffic

  • Cyclists ride against traffic or enter from sidewalks or driveways

  • Riders swerve out of bike lanes or fail to signal turns

  • Bicycles lack proper lights or reflectors, especially at night

What to Do After a Bike Accident

If you are ever involved in a crash while riding, here’s what to do:

Immediately After the Crash

  • Stay calm and check for injuries. Do not rush to get up if you feel off balance or hurt

  • Assess your helmet. Replace it if there are any cracks or damage

  • Check your bike. Look for frame cracks, bent wheels, or brake issues

At the Scene

  • Call 911 to report the accident

  • Gather information. Get the driver’s name, insurance, license plate, witness names, and photos of the scene and damage

  • Avoid negotiating or admitting fault on the spot

Afterward

  • Get medical care even if you feel okay. Some injuries surface later

  • Request the police report for your records

  • Have your bike inspected by a shop

  • Track expenses like medical bills, repairs, and time off work

  • Talk to a lawyer before dealing with insurance or signing anything

Injured While Biking? Call Elk + Elk

Our attorneys understand the serious impact of a bike crash, and we know how to fight back. Whether you were injured by a careless driver, faulty bike equipment, or poor road design, our bicycle accident lawyers can help protect your rights.

Call us at 1-800-ELK-OHIO or contact us online to schedule your free consultation to learn about your rights and options after a bicycle accident. You may be eligible for payment of your medical bills, property damages, lost wages, pain, and suffering.