I Got Hit by a Bicycle While Walking—Do I Have a Case?

It's a scenario most people don't expect—you're crossing the street or strolling through a park, and suddenly, a cyclist slams into you. Unlike car accidents, where insurance coverage is more straightforward, pedestrian accidents involving bicycles can leave you wondering what to do next. If you've been hit by a bike while walking, your legal options may be more limited than you think. That's why it's important to understand your rights and speak with an experienced personal injury attorney, especially if you're dealing with serious injuries.

Bicycle-Pedestrian Collisions

When a cyclist hits a pedestrian, it can lead to real, lasting harm. Broken bones, concussions, facial injuries, and even spinal trauma are not uncommon, especially if the pedestrian is elderly or the cyclist was riding at a high speed. One common scenario is a cyclist speeding downhill or through a crowded crosswalk, failing to yield or notice a pedestrian in time to avoid a collision. In these moments, even a simple walk around the neighborhood can turn into a trip to the ER.

If you got hit by a bicycle while walking, you might be surprised at how complex the legal aftermath can be. Unlike motorists, cyclists typically don't carry liability insurance, which means there may be no insurance company to file a claim against. This lack of coverage limits your options when trying to file a personal injury claim for a pedestrian accident. In many cases, your best chance of recovering compensation is through the cyclist's homeowner's or renter's insurance—if they have it.

But even then, proving liability can be tricky. This is where consulting a legal professional becomes imperative. A lawyer can help identify every possible source of compensation, whether it's from an insurance policy, the city (in case of hazardous road design), or another third party that may have contributed to the accident.

Determining Fault

If you've been hit by a bike and suffered major injuries, don't assume there's no recourse just because the cyclist doesn't have insurance. For example, let's say you were walking in a designated pedestrian path at a beach boardwalk and were struck by a cyclist who was texting while riding. Even if they weren't insured, an attorney can investigate whether they have personal assets or applicable coverage under another policy.

If the incident occurred in an area where bicycles aren't allowed or where local signage is unclear, there may be grounds for a claim against the municipality. These are details most people wouldn't think to look into—but a good lawyer will. Also, keep in mind that the cyclist may try to argue that the pedestrian was at fault.

We've seen cases where pedestrians hit by cyclists were unfairly blamed—accused of not looking both ways or suddenly stepping into the bike's path. The truth is, these situations can get complicated quickly. And if a cyclist hits a pedestrian, trying to sort through the legal aftermath on your own can cost you valuable time, money, and peace of mind. It's essential to work with a trusted attorney who can not only guide you through your legal options but also help ensure you receive all the support you need during such challenging times.

Need an Accident Injury Attorney in North Hollywood or Glendale?

When a bike hits a pedestrian, contacting an accident injury attorney in North Hollywood should be one of your first steps. They can help you make sense of the situation, explore all potential sources of recovery, and advocate for what you deserve. If you or a loved one has been hit by a bicycle while walking, don't brush it off as "just an accident." Serious injuries deserve serious legal support. 

At Yepremyan Law Firm, our pedestrian accident lawyer in North Hollywood is here to help. Additionally, you can also request to speak with a personal injury attorney in Glendale. Since 1998, our team has helped thousands of injured clients across Southern California receive fair and just compensation for their injuries.

If you need immediate help after a pedestrian accident, call our office today to schedule a free consultation. Our personal injury law firm in North Hollywood offers 24/7 support, as we understand that accidents don't happen on a schedule.

*No Legal Advice Intended. This website includes general information about legal issues and developments in the law. These materials have been prepared for general informational purposes only and are not intended to be legal advice. Please consult an attorney for legal advice pertaining to any particular legal matter. Use of and access to this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader, user, or browser and Yepremyan Law Firm and any of its attorneys, employees, or associates.