A bicycle accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. Cyclists are among the most vulnerable road users with little protection against cars, trucks, and distracted drivers. Even a low-speed collision can result in severe injuries, mounting medical bills, and lost wages leaving you struggling to recover.

At The Clark Law Office, we understand how devastating these crashes can be. Our experienced accident attorneys fight for injured cyclists making sure reckless drivers and insurance companies don’t take advantage of you. If you were hit by a negligent driver, you have rights and we’re here to help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents can happen anywhere, but most are caused by negligent drivers who fail to respect cyclists’ rights on the road. While some crashes result from unsafe road conditions or poor visibility, the majority of collisions are preventable. Understanding the most common causes of bicycle accidents can help riders stay alert and strengthen your injury claim if a driver is at fault.  Below is a breakdown of the leading causes of bicycle accidents in Michigan and why they are so dangerous for cyclists:

🚲 Cause🚦 How It Happens⚠️ Why It’s Dangerous
📱 Distracted DrivingDrivers texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting their GPS fail to see cyclists.Increases the risk of sideswipes and rear-end collisions.
🚦 Failing to YieldDrivers don’t yield the right-of-way to cyclists at intersections or crosswalks.Leads to dangerous T-bone collisions or cyclists getting cut off.
🚪 DooringA parked driver opens their door into a cyclist’s path without checking.Can launch cyclists into traffic, causing severe injuries.
⚡ SpeedingDrivers going too fast can’t stop in time to avoid a cyclist.Higher impact force results in catastrophic injuries.
🍺 Drunk DrivingImpaired drivers have slower reaction times and poor judgment.One of the leading causes of fatal bicycle crashes.
🛑 Poor Road ConditionsPotholes, debris, and uneven pavement create hazards for cyclists.Can cause loss of control and serious falls.

Who Is Liable in a Bicycle Accident?

Liability in a bicycle accident depends on who was negligent and whether Michigan’s laws were violated. While drivers are often at fault, liability can also extend to cyclists, municipalities, and even bike manufacturers in certain situations. Understanding who is responsible is essential for filing an injury claim and recovering compensation.  Below is a breakdown of how liability is determined in Michigan bicycle accidents:

⚖️ Liable Party🚴 How They May Be at Fault🏛️ Legal Consequences
🚗 Negligent DriverSpeeding, distracted driving, failure to yield, drunk driving, or violating cyclist right-of-way.Liable for damages through auto insurance or a personal injury lawsuit.
🚴 CyclistRunning red lights, failing to use bike lanes, riding against traffic, or not using required lights at night.May share fault, reducing potential compensation under comparative negligence laws.
🏙️ City or MunicipalityPoor road conditions, missing signage, or dangerous bike lane designs.May be liable if road hazards contributed to the accident.
🚲 Bicycle ManufacturerDefective brakes, tires, or other faulty bike components.Subject to a product liability claim if a defect caused the crash.

Michigan follows a modified comparative negligence rule meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault as long as you are 50% or less responsible for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries

Bicycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection compared to motor vehicles. Even at low speeds, cyclists can suffer life-altering injuries from direct impact, being thrown onto the pavement, or colliding with another object.  Some of the most common injuries in bicycle accidents include:

  • Head and Brain Injuries – Even with a helmet, cyclists can suffer concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) from a hard impact.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries – Severe crashes can lead to paralysis or long-term nerve damage.
  • Broken Bones and Fractures – Wrists, arms, collarbones, and legs are especially vulnerable in a fall or collision.
  • Road Rash and Soft Tissue Injuries – Sliding on pavement can cause deep abrasions, scarring, and infections.
  • Internal Injuries – Damage to organs, ribs, and internal bleeding are common in high-impact crashes.
  • Facial Injuries – Cyclists often suffer jaw fractures, dental injuries, and lacerations from striking the ground or another object.

Even minor accidents can lead to long-term pain, medical expenses, and lost wages. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, seeking immediate medical attention and legal guidance can help protect your health and financial future.

How a Lawyer Can Help Maximize Your Claim

After a bicycle accident, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or shift blame onto the cyclist. Without legal representation, you risk accepting a lowball settlement that doesn’t fully cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term suffering.  A Michigan bicycle accident lawyer ensures you receive full compensation by:

  • Investigating the Crash – Gathering police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction to prove fault.
  • Handling the Insurance Companies – Negotiating aggressively so you don’t get pressured into an unfair settlement.
  • Proving the Full Extent of Your Damages – Working with medical experts to document the severity of your injuries.
  • Calculating All Your Losses – Ensuring you receive compensation for future medical care, lost earning potential, and pain and suffering.
  • Taking Your Case to Court if Necessary – If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair

With a skilled attorney on your side, you can focus on recovery while your legal team fights to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accidents in Michigan

What should I do immediately after a bicycle accident?

Seek medical attention, call the police, document the scene, gather witness information, and contact a lawyer before speaking with insurance companies.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Michigan follows comparative negligence laws, meaning you can still recover damages as long as you were 50% or less at fault—but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Do I need a lawyer for a bicycle accident claim?

While not required, a lawyer can significantly increase your chances of receiving a fair settlement, especially if fault is disputed or the insurance company is offering a low amount.

What types of damages can I recover after a bicycle crash?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and long-term disability if applicable.

How long do I have to file a bicycle accident lawsuit in Michigan?

You generally have three years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit, but it's best to act quickly to preserve evidence and protect your case.

Will my insurance cover my injuries if the driver was uninsured?

If you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, you may be able to file a claim with your own insurance company. A lawyer can help determine all available compensation sources.

Contact a Michigan Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, you need a law firm that truly cares about your recovery and your case. Unlike big firms that treat you like just another case file, we take a personalized approach—you’ll work directly with an experienced attorney who knows your case inside and out. We may be a smaller firm, but we achieve big results fighting aggressively to maximize your compensation.

We understand the devastating impact a bicycle accident can have on your life, and we’re here to take the legal burden off your shoulders. You don’t pay unless we win. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s talk about how we can help you move forward.

If your accident happened near MSU, downtown Lansing, or anywhere in Ingham County, speak with a Lansing bicycle accident lawyer who understands the local roads, courts, and bike traffic patterns.

See how bike crashes are treated alongside other vehicle-related accidents in our car accident types guide.

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