Bicyclist Hit Crossing Street

I’m Katelyn Holub, an attorney focusing on personal injury law in northwest Indiana.

Welcome to Personal Injury Primer, where we break down the law into simple terms, provide legal tips, and discuss personal injury law topics.

Today’s question comes from a woman who called saying that her bicycling husband was struck by a car when he crossed a street while riding on a bike trail. She wanted to know their legal rights.

If a car strikes a bicyclist while he crosses a street from a bike trail in Indiana, the injured cyclist may be able to sue for compensation. But it will depend on the circumstances of the crash.

In Indiana, drivers must exercise caution to avoid hitting pedestrians and cyclists.

However, cyclists also have responsibilities. A bicyclist must obey traffic laws and exercise reasonable care in operating the bicycle.

Just the other day, I encountered a cyclist NOT following the rules of the road. I was driving a car on a divided four-lane highway going eastbound, and the bicyclist was in the inside eastbound lane pedaling westbound.  I was surprised nobody struck him.

Liability in each case will depend on who was at fault for the crash.

If the car driver was distracted or impaired, they may be held fully responsible.

If the cyclist was violating traffic laws (such as crossing against a red light or without signaling) or operating their bicycle in a manner similar to the man I just described, their actions may result in a jury finding them to be at fault.

Where the car driver’s negligence contributed to causing the accident, the cyclist may be successful in filing a personal injury claim and seeking compensation for their injuries and damages.

Damage may include tangible losses, such as medical bills, lost income, and property damage. Damages may also include compensation for pain and suffering, as well as emotional distress.

I hope you found this information helpful. If you are a victim of someone’s carelessness, substandard medical care, product defect, work injury, or another personal injury, please call (219) 736-9700 with your questions. You can also learn more about us by visiting our website at DavidHolubLaw.com – while there, make sure you request a copy of our book “Fighting for Truth.”