Getting hit by a car while riding your bike is terrifying, especially if it happens in a crosswalk where you thought you had the right of way. Unfortunately, these types of collisions are more common than most people realize, and figuring out who’s legally at fault isn’t always straightforward. Michigan traffic laws protect bicyclists in many situations, but drivers, cyclists, and even police officers often misunderstand the rules at crosswalks.
In this article, we’ll explain how fault is determined when a car hits a bicyclist in a crosswalk, what laws apply in Michigan, and what your legal options are if you’ve been injured.
Do Crosswalk Laws Protect Bicyclists in Michigan?
Yes, but it depends on how the cyclist is using the crosswalk. Under Michigan law, bicyclists have many of the same rights as pedestrians when crossing at a marked crosswalk, especially if they’re walking their bikes. If the rider is dismounted and walking, they’re clearly protected. However, if the cyclist is riding through the crosswalk, things get more complicated.
In many cases, courts still find that motorists must yield to cyclists in crosswalks, especially if the rider is already in the crosswalk when the vehicle approaches. But fault can hinge on details like speed, visibility, signage, and whether the cyclist obeyed traffic signals. If you were injured while riding in a crosswalk, an experienced attorney can help you understand your rights under state traffic laws. Learn more about your rights after a bicycle accident in Michigan and how state-specific laws could impact your case.
When Is the Driver at Fault for Hitting a Cyclist?
Drivers are often at fault when they fail to yield to a bicyclist already crossing at a marked crosswalk. Michigan law requires motorists to stop for pedestrians and in many situations, that includes cyclists when they’re already in the crosswalk or approaching closely enough to pose a danger. This is especially true in neighborhoods, school zones, or areas with pedestrian signage or flashing beacons.
Common driver errors include speeding through intersections, failing to check for cyclists before turning right, or stopping in the crosswalk, which can block a rider’s safe path. In urban areas like Lansing, distracted driving and right-turn conflicts are major causes of these crashes. If this sounds like your situation, you can learn more about your options by visiting our page for bicycle accident victims in Lansing.
Can a Cyclist Be at Fault for a Crosswalk Crash?
Yes, under certain circumstances, a bicyclist can share fault or even be primarily responsible for a crash at a crosswalk. Michigan uses a comparative fault system, which means your compensation can be reduced if you’re found partially at fault. Cyclists may be blamed if they dart into the crosswalk suddenly, ride against traffic, ignore signals, or fail to yield to vehicles that already have the right of way.
However, fault is rarely clear-cut. Even if a cyclist made a mistake, the driver may still be liable if they were speeding, distracted, or failed to stop in time. If you’ve been involved in this type of crash, it’s critical to speak with a lawyer who understands the nuances of Michigan traffic law and how fault is determined in crosswalk-related bicycle accident claims.
What Evidence Helps Prove Fault in These Cases?
Proving fault in a car-versus-bicycle crosswalk accident often comes down to the details. Insurance companies may try to blame the cyclist, especially if they were riding through the crosswalk instead of walking. That’s why collecting the right evidence early is key to protecting your claim and showing who had the right of way.
From traffic camera footage to crash scene photos, every piece of documentation helps. Statements from neutral witnesses can carry a lot of weight , especially when the driver and cyclist offer conflicting accounts. A police report that clearly states fault can also strengthen your case.
| 🔍 Type of Evidence | ✅ Why It Matters | 💡 Tips to Get It |
|---|---|---|
| Traffic camera footage | Shows real-time crash events | Request quickly — it may be erased soon |
| Police report | May include officer's fault determination | Get a copy and correct errors |
| Witness statements | Can confirm who entered the crosswalk first | Ask for names/contact info at scene |
| Photos of scene | Document signage, signals, damage, injuries | Take pictures immediately if safe |
| Medical records | Connects injuries to crash | Keep all diagnosis and treatment notes |
What Compensation Can Injured Cyclists Recover?
If a driver is found at fault for hitting you in a crosswalk, you may be entitled to significant compensation even if you were partially responsible. Bicycle accident injuries can lead to steep medical bills, lost time from work, and lasting pain. In fatal cases, surviving family members may also be able to pursue a wrongful death claim.
The amount you can recover depends on the severity of your injuries, how much the crash has affected your life, and the insurance coverage involved. Working with an attorney can help ensure no category of compensation is overlooked.
| 💵 Damage Type | 📝 Description | 📌 Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | ER visits, surgery, rehab, medications | Largest cost category in most cases |
| Lost Wages & Income | Missed work and reduced future earnings | Covers short- and long-term impact |
| Pain and Suffering | Physical pain, emotional trauma | Varies based on injury severity |
| Property Damage | Bike repair or replacement costs | Often underestimated by insurers |
| Wrongful Death Damages | Funeral costs, loss of companionship | Available to families of deceased |
Injured at a Crosswalk? Speak With a Michigan Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you were hit while biking through a crosswalk, don’t assume the crash was your fault and don’t trust the insurance company to tell you the truth. These cases often involve shared blame, biased assumptions about cyclists, and legal gray areas that require real experience to navigate.
At The Clark Law Office, we’ve helped injured bicyclists across Michigan get the compensation they deserve after serious crosswalk collisions. We don’t hand your case off to staff, you’ll work directly with an attorney who knows how to build a winning claim. Your consultation is free, and you won’t pay anything unless we win your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Crosswalk Accidents
Can a driver be at fault for hitting a cyclist in a crosswalk?
Yes. If the cyclist was already in the crosswalk or crossing lawfully, the driver is often at fault for failing to yield. Michigan law requires drivers to stop for pedestrians and, in many cases, cyclists using crosswalks.
Is it illegal to ride a bike through a crosswalk in Michigan?
It’s not illegal, but it can affect fault in an accident. Cyclists riding through a crosswalk may be viewed differently than those walking their bikes. However, riders still have rights and may be entitled to compensation even if they didn’t dismount.
What if the cyclist wasn’t using a marked crosswalk?
Unmarked crosswalks — like those at T-intersections or corners — may still be legally protected. Liability depends on the circumstances, local signage, and whether the cyclist acted reasonably.
How can a lawyer help after a bike crash in a crosswalk?
A lawyer can help collect evidence, deal with the insurance companies, and build a case showing the driver was negligent. They’ll also ensure you meet legal deadlines and pursue the maximum compensation available.
