Cycling is a healthy, affordable, and eco-friendly way to travel. But it also comes with risks. Every year, thousands of cyclists are injured on the road due to different types of accidents. Understanding the common causes of bicycle accidents and knowing who may be responsible can help you stay safe and also guide you if you ever need to make a claim.
This article explains everything in clear and easy-to-read language.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents?
Bicycle accidents can happen for many reasons. Sometimes the driver is at fault. Sometimes the cyclist makes a mistake. And in some cases, the road conditions or weather play a major role. Below are the most common causes.
1. Drivers Not Paying Attention
One of the biggest causes of bicycle accidents is distracted driving. Many drivers look at their phones, adjust the radio, or talk to passengers instead of watching the road.
When a driver is distracted, they may:
- Miss a cyclist riding beside them
- Fail to stop in time
- Drift into the cycle lane
- Open their car door suddenly
These actions can easily cause serious injuries to cyclists.
Who is responsible?
In most cases, the driver is responsible because they failed to pay attention and keep the road safe.
2. Cars Turning Without Checking
Drivers often turn left or right without checking for cyclists. This is especially dangerous at traffic lights, roundabouts, and junctions.
A cyclist may be riding straight, but the driver may turn across their path. This is called a “left-hook” or “right-hook” accident.
Who is responsible?
Usually the driver, because the law says drivers must check properly before turning.
3. Opening Car Doors Into Cyclists (Dooring Accidents)
A dooring accident happens when someone opens a car door without checking if a cyclist is coming. The cyclist may crash into the door or swerve into traffic to avoid it.
Who is responsible?
The person opening the door — driver or passenger — is normally responsible because they must check before opening the door.
4. Poor or Unsafe Road Conditions
Sometimes the road itself is the problem. Common issues include:
- Large potholes
- Uneven road surfaces
- Loose gravel
- Broken or missing drain covers
- No proper cycle lane markings
Cyclists can lose balance, skid, or fall because of these issues.
Who is responsible?
If the road is poorly maintained, the local council or highway authority may be responsible.
They must keep roads safe. If they fail to repair dangerous defects, they may be at fault.
5. Speeding and Reckless Driving
Drivers who speed, tailgate, or overtake too closely put cyclists at serious risk. Cyclists have less protection than car drivers, so even a low-speed collision can cause major injuries.
Reckless actions include:
- Heavy braking without warning
- Cutting into a cyclist’s path
- Dangerous overtaking
- Driving aggressively in traffic
Who is responsible?
The driver is usually liable because reckless driving is against the law.
6. Drivers Failing to Give Enough Space
When overtaking a bicycle, drivers must leave enough room. Many countries require at least 1.5 metres of space. But some drivers pass too closely, causing cyclists to panic or lose balance.
Close passes can lead to:
- Falls
- Side-swipes
- Collisions with curbs or objects
Who is responsible?
The driver, for not giving proper safe distance.
7. Cyclist Mistakes or Inexperience
Not every accident is caused by the driver. Sometimes cyclists make mistakes too.
Common cyclist errors include:
- Cycling through red lights
- Not signalling when turning
- Riding too fast
- Wearing dark clothes at night
- Using a bicycle with faulty brakes or lights
Who is responsible?
Responsibility depends on the situation.
If the cyclist acted unsafely, they may share responsibility. However, if a driver also acted dangerously, both may share blame.
8. Weather Conditions
Bad weather can make cycling more dangerous. Rain, snow, or fog reduces visibility for both cyclists and drivers. Roads become slippery, and braking distance increases.
Who is responsible?
Responsibility depends on how each person acted.
Drivers must still drive safely for the conditions, and cyclists must ride carefully.
9. Pedestrians Stepping Into the Road
Sometimes pedestrians step into the cycle lane without looking. This can cause the cyclist to crash into them or swerve into traffic.
Who is responsible?
Often the pedestrian is at fault for not checking before crossing.
But in some situations, both parties may share blame.
10. Hit-and-Run Bicycle Accidents
A hit-and-run happens when a driver hits a cyclist and then leaves the scene without stopping. This is illegal.
Who is responsible?
The driver is completely responsible.
Cyclists can still claim compensation through motor insurance bodies even if the driver cannot be identified.
Final Thoughts
Bicycle accidents can happen for many reasons — from careless drivers to poor road conditions. Understanding the common causes and knowing who might be responsible helps cyclists stay safe and stay informed.
If an accident happens due to someone else’s fault, you may be able to claim compensation for your injuries, medical costs, lost income, and damage to your bike.