When we think of auto insurance, we often picture two cars colliding. But what happens when a vehicle strikes a bicyclist? Or when a cyclist causes damage to a vehicle? These situations aren’t as uncommon as you might think, and they raise an important question: does auto insurance cover bicycle accidents? Understanding how your coverage works in these scenarios is essential—not just for drivers, but also for cyclists. In this article, we’ll break down the ins and outs of bicycle-related accidents and how your auto insurance policy comes into play.
Understanding Bicycle Accidents in the Eyes of Insurance
From an insurance perspective, a bicycle is not considered a motor vehicle. However, when a car is involved in a collision with a bicycle, the event is treated similarly to a traditional auto accident in terms of liability and damages. Whether you’re the driver who hits a cyclist or the cyclist who is struck by a car, the type and extent of insurance coverage involved can vary significantly based on the circumstances, the state you’re in, and the specific coverage included in the policy.
When You’re the Driver and Hit a Cyclist
If you’re driving and accidentally hit a cyclist, your liability coverage would typically come into play. Most states require liability insurance, which covers bodily injury and property damage that you cause to others. In this case, the injured cyclist could file a claim against your insurance to cover their medical bills, lost wages, and possibly even pain and suffering.
Depending on the severity of the accident, this could lead to significant expenses—and potentially a lawsuit—so it’s important to have adequate liability limits. Many experts recommend going beyond the state minimum coverage to avoid paying out-of-pocket if damages exceed your policy limits.
When You’re a Cyclist Hit by a Car
If you’re on a bicycle and a driver hits you, the driver’s auto insurance—specifically their liability coverage—should pay for your injuries and damages, assuming they are at fault. However, in situations where the driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) may cover your medical bills and other expenses, even though you were riding a bicycle and not driving a car.
Some people don’t realize that their auto insurance can protect them as pedestrians or cyclists in certain circumstances. That’s why it’s smart to make sure your UM/UIM coverage limits are high enough to protect you beyond just vehicle-to-vehicle accidents.
Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay) and PIP Benefits
Depending on your policy and your state’s insurance laws, you might also have access to Medical Payments (MedPay) or Personal Injury Protection (PIP). These no-fault coverages can help pay for your medical expenses regardless of who was at fault in the accident. This means that if you’re a cyclist and are injured in a collision with a car, your own PIP or MedPay coverage could kick in and cover your treatment costs, even if you’re not driving.
This is particularly useful in states that follow a no-fault insurance system, where your own insurance pays first regardless of fault. Be sure to check with your provider to confirm if your PIP or MedPay coverage applies when you’re on a bicycle.
What If a Cyclist Causes the Accident?
In some cases, a bicyclist might be at fault for causing an accident—for example, by swerving into traffic, running a stop sign, or riding against the flow of traffic. If a cyclist is responsible for property damage or injuries, they could be held liable. In these situations, a cyclist’s homeowners or renters insurance may help pay for damages or injuries caused to others.
That’s right—while it may seem surprising, personal liability coverage included in homeowners or renters policies can apply to incidents outside the home, including bike accidents. However, this coverage usually doesn’t apply if the bike is used for business purposes (e.g., food delivery).
The Role of Health Insurance for Cyclists
If you’re a cyclist injured in a traffic accident, your health insurance can help cover treatment costs not paid by auto insurance. In some cases, your health insurer may cover your initial expenses and then seek reimbursement through a process called subrogation if another party is found to be at fault. While this doesn’t replace the need for auto coverage, it can provide an added layer of financial protection—especially if the driver at fault is uninsured or underinsured.
Filing a Claim After a Bicycle Accident
Whether you’re the driver or the cyclist, documenting the scene is crucial after an accident. Here’s what you should do:
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Call the police and file an accident report.
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Take photographs of the scene, injuries, and any property damage.
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Get contact and insurance information from all parties involved.
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Gather witness statements, if possible.
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Seek immediate medical attention—even if injuries seem minor.
Once that’s done, contact your insurance company to start the claims process. Be honest, provide all necessary documentation, and keep records of your medical treatment and expenses.
Why Cyclists Should Consider Insurance Too
Many cyclists assume they don’t need insurance, but that’s not always true. Some insurance companies offer bicycle-specific policies that include theft, liability, and even accident coverage. These policies can supplement your health and homeowners insurance and provide more peace of mind—especially for those who ride frequently or rely on bikes for transportation.
Final Thoughts: Know Your Coverage Before You Ride or Drive
Whether you’re behind the wheel or on a bike, understanding how insurance covers bicycle-related accidents is critical. Drivers should ensure they have sufficient liability and uninsured motorist coverage. Cyclists should consider how their auto, renters, health, or even specialized bike insurance might protect them in case of a crash.
Accidents between cars and bicycles can be devastating, but having the right insurance—and knowing how it applies—can make all the difference when it comes to recovery and financial protection.