What Can You Do After a Car Hits You on Your Bike?

 Posted on July 16, 2025 in Car accidents

Cycling in Texas cities like Austin and San Antonio is becoming more popular, but sharing the road with cars brings real risks. When a collision happens, even a low-speed crash can leave a bicyclist shaken and injured. Knowing what steps to take immediately after a crash, and understanding your legal options later, can make all the difference between suffering financially and having the resources you need to deal with your injuries. If you have been hurt in a bicycle crash with a car, our Texas personal injury attorney can help you consider your options. 

Why Bicycle Accidents Are So Dangerous

Unlike drivers, bicyclists do not have airbags, seatbelts, or the protective frame of a vehicle. Even at slow speeds, a car striking a bike can throw the rider onto pavement or into traffic. Texas law recognizes these dangers and requires drivers to give bicyclists at least three feet of clearance when passing. Unfortunately, not all drivers follow this rule.

Example: When a Cyclist is Severely Injured by a Car 

A 42-year-old cyclist in Austin was commuting home when a distracted driver veered into the bike lane and clipped his rear tire. The collision threw him onto the hood of the car before he landed on the asphalt. He suffered multiple broken ribs and a concussion, and required surgery for a fractured wrist. His recovery took months, during which he was unable to work.

In cases like this, the injured cyclist may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term rehabilitation costs. A personal injury attorney can help identify all potentially liable parties and negotiate with the driver’s insurance company.

Example: When a Bicycle-Car Crash Causes Only A Minor Injury

In San Antonio, a teenager riding her bike to school was sideswiped by a car making a right turn. The impact knocked her off balance, but she landed on a grassy shoulder. She suffered from road rash and a sprained ankle but was able to walk home.

Although her injuries were less severe, she still had the right to file a claim for her medical expenses and the cost of replacing her bent front wheel. Even in minor injury cases, it is important to document the accident and seek medical attention to rule out hidden injuries like concussions or soft tissue damage, especially if the driver was clearly acting negligently.

Steps to Take After You Are Hurt in a Bicycle Accident with a Car

If a car hits you while you are riding a bike, take the following steps if you are physically able:

• Call 911 and ask for police and medical assistance.

• Get the driver’s name, contact information, and insurance details.

• If you can, take photos of the scene, your bike, and your injuries.

• Seek medical care even if you feel okay initially. Some injuries may not appear right away.

Legal Options for Injured Cyclists

In Texas, bicyclists have the same rights to the road as motorists, and drivers are required to exercise caution to avoid hitting them. When a driver fails to yield, drives distracted, or violates traffic laws, they can be held liable for the harm they cause.

An attorney experienced in bicycle accident cases can evaluate your claim, deal with insurance adjusters, and, if necessary, take your case to court to recover full and fair compensation. Under ILCS 730 5/, you only have two years to take legal action. Additionally, evidence fades quickly. You have nothing to lose by speaking with our attorney. 

Contact a San Antonio, TX Personal Injury Attorney 

If you were hit by a car while riding your bike, meet with the Austin, TX bicycle accident lawyer at Alford Law PLLC. We offer free consultations and can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for your injuries. Call 210-951-9467 today to get started with a free consultation.