Every cyclist has heard it: “They came out of nowhere.” or “They don’t belong on the road.” But when a crash happens between a car and a bike, those assumptions can do more than just spread misinformation, they can shape police reports, affect insurance claims, and even influence court outcomes.
The truth? Most serious bicycle accidents in Michigan are caused by driver error, not reckless riding. Yet many drivers still believe myths that unfairly blame cyclists and minimize their rights on the road.
In this post, we’ll break down the most common misconceptions drivers have about bicycle accidents, explain what Michigan law actually says, and help both cyclists and motorists understand who’s really at fault when a crash happens.
Why Bicycle Accidents Are So Often Misunderstood
Most drivers spend their lives behind the wheel, not on a bike. That disconnect leads to dangerous misunderstandings about how cyclists ride, what the law allows, and who’s really at fault when a crash happens. In Michigan, where infrastructure is often built for cars first and bikes second, these misconceptions can be especially harmful. Many people assume cyclists are unpredictable, careless, or don’t follow traffic laws. But studies consistently show that driver inattention and failure to yield are the leading causes of bicycle crashes, not reckless riding. The problem is worsened by:
- Lack of dedicated bike lanes in places like East Lansing and Grand River Avenue
- Assumptions made by police when writing crash reports
- Insurance company bias, which often starts with the belief that cyclists are partly to blame
Until these misunderstandings are addressed, injured riders may struggle to prove fault or get fair compensation, even when the driver was clearly negligent.
The Top Myths Drivers Believe About Bicycle Accidents
Even well-meaning drivers often have the wrong idea about cyclists and their rights on the road. These myths aren’t just frustrating, they can lead to dangerous driving behavior and unjust outcomes after a crash. Let’s set the record straight. Here are the most common misconceptions about bicycle accidents in Michigan and the legal truth behind each one:
| ❌ Myth | ✅ What Michigan Law Actually Says | 🧠 What It Means for Drivers and Riders |
|---|---|---|
| 🚗 Cyclists must stay off the road | Bicycles are legal vehicles and allowed on most roads | Drivers must share the lane and yield when required |
| 🚶 Bikes have to use the sidewalk | Sidewalk use is not required and often discouraged | Riding on sidewalks can be unsafe and may be illegal in some cities |
| ⚠️ Cyclists always cause the crash | Most crashes are caused by driver inattention or failure to yield | Don’t assume fault—facts matter and so does liability |
| 🪖 No helmet means no compensation | Helmet use isn’t required for adults in Michigan | Lack of helmet doesn’t prevent an injured cyclist from suing |
| 🛑 Bicyclists don’t follow traffic laws | Cyclists must obey stop signs, signals, and lane rules | Most riders follow the law—treat them like any other road user |
These myths don’t just shape public opinion, they influence how claims are handled, how cases are argued, and how much compensation a rider receives after a crash.
What Michigan Law Actually Says About Cyclist Rights
In Michigan, bicycles are considered vehicles under the law. That means cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of cars, trucks, and motorcycles. But despite this, many drivers either don’t know or ignore the laws designed to protect people on bikes. Here are some of the key rights cyclists have under Michigan law:
- The right to use the roadway: Cyclists can legally ride on most public roads, even if there’s no bike lane. Drivers must share the road and provide safe passing distance.
- The right-of-way at intersections and crosswalks: Just like pedestrians and vehicles, cyclists have the right-of-way in many intersection situations.
- The right to ride two abreast: In Michigan, cyclists are allowed to ride side-by-side in a single lane unless a local ordinance prohibits it.
- The right to file a personal injury claim: If a driver hits a cyclist, the injured rider can file a claim for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and more.
- The right to be protected from harassment: It’s illegal for drivers to threaten, intimidate, or try to force cyclists off the road.
For crashes involving a motor vehicle, cyclists may also qualify for no-fault insurance benefits, even though they weren’t driving. These benefits can cover medical bills, lost wages, and other essential expenses if handled properly. Michigan law is clear: cyclists belong on the road, and they’re entitled to legal protection when a driver’s mistake causes harm.
Who’s Liable When a Car Hits a Cyclist in Michigan?
Liability in a bicycle accident often depends on who had the right-of-way and whether either party violated traffic laws. While every crash is unique, most collisions are the result of a driver’s failure to yield, speeding, distraction, or simply not seeing the cyclist until it was too late. Michigan follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning cyclists can still recover compensation even if they were partially at fault so long as they’re not more than 50% responsible for the crash. Here are some common scenarios and how liability typically plays out:
| 🚲 Crash Scenario | ⚖️ Likely At-Fault Party | 📝 Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| 🚗 Car turns left in front of cyclist | Driver | Driver must yield to oncoming traffic |
| 🚶 Cyclist hit in crosswalk | Driver | Crosswalks provide protected right-of-way |
| 🛣️ Cyclist riding outside bike lane | Depends on situation | Bike lanes aren’t legally required in Michigan |
| 🚪 Car door opens into cyclist’s path (“dooring”) | Driver/passenger | Must check surroundings before opening door |
| 🌀 Cyclist swerves into traffic suddenly | Cyclist | Unpredictable movement can shift liability |
Even when fault seems obvious, insurance companies often try to shift blame onto the cyclist. That’s why it’s critical to document the crash scene, get witness statements, and speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.
How Lansing Drivers Can Avoid Hitting Cyclists
Whether you’re driving through downtown Lansing, near the MSU campus, or along Grand River Avenue, sharing the road with cyclists is part of everyday traffic. But far too many local bike accidents happen simply because drivers aren’t watching for them. Here’s how Lansing-area drivers can reduce the risk of hitting a cyclist:
- Expect cyclists in busy corridors. Areas around Michigan State University, Frandor, and East Lansing neighborhoods see heavy bike traffic—especially during the school year.
- Slow down near intersections and driveways. Most bike crashes happen at intersections where drivers turn left or pull out without looking.
- Give at least 3 feet of space when passing. Michigan law requires it, and more space is always safer.
- Check before opening your door. “Dooring” a cyclist is a common and preventable cause of serious injury.
- Don’t assume sidewalk riders are safe. Many cyclists ride on sidewalks in Lansing because of road conditions—but they’re still at risk at crosswalks and driveways.
- Avoid distractions. Texting, adjusting the radio, or even glancing at your GPS can lead to a collision with a bike you didn’t see coming.
Taking a few extra seconds to look and give space can prevent a lifetime of regret.
Why Injured Cyclists Shouldn’t Handle Their Claims Alone
After a bicycle accident, it might feel like the driver’s insurance company is being helpful or even sympathetic. But behind the scenes, they’re looking for ways to reduce their payout. And when the injured party is a cyclist, they know bias is on their side. Here’s why trying to handle your claim without a lawyer can backfire:
- Insurers often assume cyclists are at fault. They may question your position on the road, whether you wore a helmet, or if you were “visible enough.”
- They may downplay your injuries. Riders often suffer road rash, head trauma, and soft tissue damage all of which insurers try to minimize or dispute.
- You may miss compensation you’re legally entitled to. This includes pain and suffering, future medical bills, and coverage under no-fault or UM/UIM insurance.
- Adjusters know how to ask questions that weaken your case. Without legal guidance, it’s easy to say something that’s used against you later.
Having a lawyer on your side means having someone who understands both the law and how bike crashes really happen and who knows how to push back when the system isn’t fair.
Talk to a Bicycle Accident Lawyer Who Knows Michigan Law
If you’ve been hit while riding your bike, don’t let myths, assumptions, or insurance company tactics decide what your case is worth. The truth is on your side—but you’ll need someone who knows how to prove it. At The Clark Law Office, we’ve helped injured cyclists throughout Michigan recover compensation after serious crashes. We don’t hand your case off to a junior associate or chase quick settlements. You’ll work directly with an experienced accident lawyer who knows the law and fights for real results. Whether your crash happened in downtown Lansing, near MSU, or on a rural road, we’re ready to help.
🔗 Injured in a bike crash in East Lansing or nearby? Talk to a bicycle accident lawyer in Lansing who knows the local roads, police, and courts.
🔗 Looking for statewide legal guidance? See your full rights and options on our Michigan bicycle accident injury page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accidents in Michigan
Can cyclists ride on the road in Michigan?
Yes. Michigan law allows cyclists to ride on most public roads, and drivers are required to treat bicycles as legitimate vehicles. Cyclists are not required to ride on sidewalks or bike lanes unless a local ordinance says otherwise.
Who is at fault if a car hits a bicycle in a crosswalk or intersection?
In most cases, the driver is at fault for failing to yield. Cyclists in a crosswalk or proceeding straight through an intersection have the right-of-way under Michigan law.
Do cyclists have to wear a helmet in Michigan?
Only riders under the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet when operating a moped. There is no legal helmet requirement for adult bicyclists, and lack of a helmet does not prevent an injured cyclist from filing a claim.
Can I get no-fault insurance benefits if I was hit on my bike?
Sometimes. If a motor vehicle was involved and you or someone in your household has auto insurance, you may be eligible for Michigan no-fault PIP benefits. An attorney can help determine if this applies to your case.
Should I talk to the driver’s insurance company after a bicycle accident?
Not without legal guidance. Insurance adjusters may try to get a recorded statement or push for a quick settlement. Talk to a bicycle accident lawyer first to protect your rights.
