When a car hits a cyclist, figuring out who is at fault depends on the actions of everyone involved. Both drivers and cyclists have rules they must follow to keep the roads safe. Understanding how fault is assigned can help you know your rights.
Who Is at Fault When a Car Hits a Cyclist?
Here are some of the most common situations where different parties may be responsible for the accident.
When the Driver Is at Fault
Motorists must share the road with cyclists and give them the same respect they give other vehicles. Drivers are often at fault when they:
- Fail To Yield: Many bicycle crashes happen because drivers fail to watch for cyclists when turning or moving into bike lanes. Not yielding to a cyclist violates the driver’s duty to share the road safely.
- Pass Too Closely:
Most states require motorists to provide a safe buffer when overtaking a cyclist; crowding a bicyclist can force them off the road.
- Drive Distracted or Impaired: Texting, talking on the phone or otherwise not paying attention prevents a driver from seeing a cyclist in time to avoid a collision.
- Open Doors Without Looking:
Drivers and passengers must check for oncoming cyclists before opening their car doors. Failing to do so can knock a cyclist into traffic.
If a driver hit you because they failed to follow the rules of the road, evidence like witness statements, photos of the crash scene and the police report can help show that the driver was negligent.
When the Cyclist Is at Fault
Cyclists must follow the same traffic laws as motorists. You could be found partly or fully at fault if you:
- Run Red Lights or Stop Signs:
Blowing through an intersection puts you at risk of being hit by a car and may make you responsible for the collision.
- Ride Against Traffic:
Cyclists are supposed to ride with the flow of vehicles. Going the wrong way confuses drivers and makes your movements unpredictable.
- Fail To Signal:
Hand signals tell drivers you intend to turn or stop. When you do not signal and a driver cannot react in time, you may bear responsibility.
- Neglect Safety Equipment: Riding at night without proper lights or reflectors makes it harder for drivers to see you. Ignoring equipment problems on a bike or
e-bike can put you at fault.
Having the right legal guidance helps prevent others from unfairly shifting blame onto you and ensures that responsibility is assigned where it truly belongs.
Shared Fault in Car–Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents often have more than one cause. Arizona uses a pure comparative negligence law, which means that everyone involved can share some of the blame.
For example, a driver might be distracted while you bicycle against traffic. The court will decide how much fault each person has and reduce compensation by your share of responsibility.
Should You Ever Admit Fault in a Bike Accident?
