--- description: If you're a cyclist, it's crucial to know how bike accidents occur. By knowing what to watch out for, you can reduce your risk of injury. title: Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents - Chaikin and Sherman --- Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents - Chaikin and Sherman # Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents Last Updated: September 12, 2025 Reading Time: 6 minutes Trusted Content Legally Reviewed by Allan Siegel Updated 10 months ago [Home](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/) » [Washington DC Bicycle Accident Lawyer](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/) » Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents What's On This Page [Case Results](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/case-results/) $3.5 Million Bicycle Crash $ 1.8 Millon Bicycle Crash $1.5 Million Bicycle Crash $1 Million Bicycle Crash [View All Practice Areas](https://chaikinandsherman.com/practice-areas/) [Testimonials](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/testimonials-hub/) They truly cared about me as a person. Tracy Koretsky Bicycle Accident Contact Us Today! "*" indicates required fields Name* First Last Name* Last Email** Phone*Are you a new client?*Are you a new client? *Yes, I'm a potential new client.No, I'm a current existing client.I'm neitherCase TypeCase TypeMotor Vehicle AccidentSlip & FallAssaultMedical MalpracticeAbuseWork InjuryOtherWere You at Fault?Were You At Fault?NoYesUnknownWhere Did The Incident Occur?Where Did The Incident Occur?Washington, D.C.VirginiaMarylandOtherDid The Accident Occur In the Last Two Years?Did The Accident Occur In the Last Two Years?YesNoShare Brief Description of the Incident* Three of the firm’s attorneys discuss bicycle accident litigation in Washington, DC — including dooring, bike lane violations, and how the District’s Vulnerable User Recovery Act allows cyclists to recover damages even when partially at fault. The firm has secured over $3.5 million for a cyclist who suffered a traumatic brain injury in a dooring incident. Video Transcript **Speakers:** Joseph Cammarata, Stephen Ollar, Allan Siegel **Allan Siegel:** Being in the District of Columbia, which is a very bicycle friendly city, we get a lot of bicycle crashes. A lot of clients who are involved in bicycle crashes reach out to us and we’ve been handling them for years. Whether or not it’s somebody driving in a bike lane and somebody makes a turn and infringes upon the bike lane, whether it’s somebody who gets “doored” by another vehicle, in other words, a driver stops and opens his door while the bicyclist is driving with the right of way. That actually is against the law in the District of Columbia. You’re required to look before you open your door or whether or not it’s just a case where a bicycle’s riding on the roadway and with the right of way and a vehicle makes a turn or rear ends them. We get a lot of them, and we’ve been handling them for many, many years and very successfully. **Stephen Ollar:** Really, when you look at the law in DC what we talk about is vulnerable riders. So it’s not just bicyclists, it’s also motorcyclists. It’s people on e-scooters, even pedestrian, all of them who are, anybody who’s not inside a four wheeled vehicle, falls under that kind of category of a vulnerable user. And so the law in that area is consistent across the board. The law now in the District Columbia, is that if you fall into that kind of category, you could be up to 50% at fault and still be able to get a recovery. You can’t be more than 50% at fault, but as long as you’re 50% or less, you’re still eligible to get a recovery. So we do a lot of those cases and providing representation for people over hurt in those categories. **Joseph Cammarata:** So it’s important to reach out to a lawyer that knows what they’re talking about that’s going to be aggressive and going to be able to establish that your fault was slight, if any, and that you have a full opportunity to receive compensation for the harms and losses that you suffered. [https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Bike-Accidents-30-seconds.mp4](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Bike-Accidents-30-seconds.mp4) ## Common Causes of Bike Accidents Biking is a popular mode of transportation and a fun way to stay active, but it also comes with risks. Every year in the United States, hundreds of thousands of cyclists are injured in bike accidents, and tragically, hundreds lose their lives in fatal bicycle accidents. Collisions with motor vehicles are the most common cause of [bicycle-related fatalities](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/killed-in-a-bicycle-accident/), underscoring the need for increased safety measures and awareness on the roads. If you’re a cyclist or simply interested in bike safety, it’s crucial to understand how bike accidents occur. By knowing what to watch out for and taking steps to protect yourself, you can reduce your risk of injury and enjoy all the benefits of biking. If you’ve been injured in a bike accident,[ contact](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/contact-us/) the[ bike accident attorneys](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/) at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, & Siegel P.C. for help getting the compensation you deserve. ## What Are The Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents? Bicycle accidents are a common occurrence, and they can be very serious. Understanding the most common causes of these accidents is key to preventing them from happening in the first place. You need to know what to look out for when cycling on roads or trails, as well as how to stay safe while riding your bike. Here are some of the most common causes of bicycle crashes: ### Poor Visibility Cyclists should always wear bright clothing, use lights at night and during dusk/dawn hours, and make sure their bikes have reflectors that are visible from all angles so other drivers can easily see them. ### Distracted Driving Drivers who aren’t paying attention due to talking on their phones or texting while behind the wheel pose a huge risk for cyclists since they may not be able to react quickly enough if something unexpected happens on the road ahead of them. Driver fatigue increases the risk of distracted driving or even falling asleep at the wheel. ### Reckless Driving Drivers who are speeding, driving recklessly, or engaging in other dangerous behaviors can put cyclists in danger. The faster a car is traveling, the less time the driver has to react and brake if they encounter a cyclist on the road. ### Lack of Bicycle Lane Infrastructure Many roads aren’t designed with bicyclists in mind, which means cyclists need to share the road with other motorists. Without dedicated bike lanes, cyclists may find themselves riding close to cars and trucks that could put them in danger. ### Road Hazards Potholes, uneven surfaces, debris in bike lanes, etc., can all cause an accident if a cyclist isn’t prepared for it or doesn’t take extra caution upon approach. ### Dangerous Intersections Intersections with multiple streets crossing one another can lead to confusion among drivers, which could lead to an accident. ### Weather Conditions Rain, snow, and icy roads can make it harder for cyclists to stop quickly or take turns safely. ### Alcohol/Drugs Drivers who are impaired by alcohol or drugs are more likely to drift into bike lanes and less likely to be able to react quickly if something unexpected happens. ### Driver Negligence As with any motor vehicle, drivers of other vehicles must always be aware of their surroundings and take extra caution when near cyclists. ### Bicycle Defects Malfunctioning brakes or other components can cause a bicycle to become uncontrollable, leading to a bicycle accident. Therefore, it’s important to regularly inspect the condition of your bike and make sure all components are in proper working order. ## Common Causes Specific to Washington DC ### Poor Road Conditions In some areas, roads in DC are more worn or have more potholes than other cities due to such high traffic, so cyclists should always take extra caution when riding in the area and ensure their bike is equipped with proper shocks or suspension. ### Heavy Traffic With many drivers commuting during peak hours, there is a higher risk of an accident due to drivers not paying attention or being in a hurry. ### Poor Bike Lane Design Bike lanes in DC can sometimes be unclear or narrow, increasing the risk of accidents. In DC, the bike lane infrastructure is incomplete, leaving cyclists to share the roads with other vehicles. Cyclists should always[ double-check for cars](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/) before entering bike lanes and keep far away from vehicles. When bicyclists get in the path of motor vehicles, it can result in fatal accidents. Understanding the common causes of bicycle accidents can help cyclists take the necessary steps to stay safe and ride responsibly. ## Bicycle Accident Statistics - According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2019, a total of 843 bicyclists were killed in traffic collisions. - Of those fatalities, 27% were between the ages of children under 16 and adults over 65, respectively. - Most fatalities (53%) occurred at non-intersections, while 47% happened at intersections. - Further, male cyclists made up 87% of the fatalities, while 13% were female. - Although bicyclists make up only 2% of those injured or killed in traffic crashes, they are at a significantly higher risk of severe injuries or fatalities due to the lack of protection they have compared to motor vehicle drivers. Most bike accidents lead to injury. - In 2019, there were 49,000 bicyclists injured in collisions, a 6% increase from the 45,000 bicyclists injured in 2018. ## Common Bicycle Injuries Bicycling accidents can result in serious injuries due to the lack of protection cyclists have compared to other motorists. Common[ bicycle accident injuries](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/common-injuries-from-bicycle-accidents-in-washington-dc/) include: – Head and neck trauma – Dental Injuries – Broken bones – Spinal cord trauma – Internal organ damage – Road rash – Bruises, scrapes, and abrasions – Soft tissue injuries – Cuts and lacerations – Concussions/traumatic brain injuries ## How to Reduce the Risk of a Bicycle Accident Bicycle riders can take[ various steps](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/bike-safety/) to reduce the risk of being involved in an accident. These include: - [Wear a helmet](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/washington-dc-bike-helmet-law/) - Yield to oncoming traffic - Follow traffic[ laws](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/washington-dc-bike-laws/) and signals - Make sure your bike is properly equipped with lights and reflectors - Be aware of your surroundings on the road or bike path - Use extra caution when riding near busy intersections - Use extra caution when riding near parked cars car dor - Avoid riding in bad weather conditions - Do not ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol - Ride defensively, and be aware of drivers and their blind spots. Often, a crash happens because drivers fail to see a bicyclist. Motorists should be extra cautious when driving near cyclists. This can include: - Yielding to cyclists at intersections - Being aware of your blind spots - Leaving a safe distance when passing a cyclist - Avoiding distractions and remaining attentive to your surroundings. Always obeying traffic laws, including speed limits - Keeping an eye out for cyclists in your path ## Who is At Fault in a Bicycle Accident? It can be difficult to determine fault in a bicycle accident due to the many factors that can contribute to an accident. Bicyclists are often held responsible if they fail to follow traffic laws or do not equip their bikes with reflectors and lights. Motorists may be liable if they fail to yield to cyclists, drive recklessly, or check their blind spots. In many cases, both parties may be held liable. We recommend consulting a bicycle accident lawyer to determine the best course of action and maximize the chances of securing compensation for damages. ## Injured in a Bicycle Accident? We Can Help Bicycle accidents happen all too often. A personal injury attorney at Chaikin, Sherman Cammarata, & Siegel P.C. is here to help cyclists and motorists involved in a bicycle accident. Seeking financial compensation can be a significant aspect of the recuperation process for bicyclists who have been injured. We understand the complexities of these cases and can guide you through your bicycle accident case. If you or someone close to you has suffered an injury due to a bicycle accident, contact us for a[ free consultation](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/contact-us/) today. [Watch Our Video Testimonials](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/testimonials-hub/) Get free advice about the compensation you deserve. At Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., our car accident attorneys fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve, handling every aspect of your case to protect your rights. Trust us to stand by you and advocate aggressively on your behalf. Speak to a Specialist Visit Us in Person 1232 17th St NW Washington, DC 20036 The bicycle accident lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. represent injured cyclists across the Washington, D.C. metro area, including Virginia ([Arlington bike accident cases](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/arlington-va/), [Alexandria](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/alexandria/), and [Fairfax County bicycle injury claims](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/fairfax-va/)) and Maryland ([Silver Spring cyclist injury cases](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/silver-spring/)), and we also handle [Capital Bikeshare claims](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/washington-dc-capital-bikeshare-accident-attorney/) and [e-bike injury matters](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/electric-bicycles/) throughout the District. Top 10 Mistakes Made After an Accident Review these common auto accident mistakes to protect your rights. READ OUR E-BOOK Meet Our Team Learn More About Us Ira Sherman Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and New York With over four decades of courtroom experience, **Ira Sherman** is a powerhouse trial lawyer who has won justice for countless victims of serious injury, discrimination, and medical malpractice. Known for his relentless advocacy, compassion, and proven results, he’s the attorney clients trust when everything is on the line. Ira Sherman's Bio Joseph Cammarata Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia A dual board-certified civil trial attorney, **Joseph Cammarata** is nationally recognized for his fierce advocacy, landmark legal victories, and relentless pursuit of justice for victims of serious injury, wrongful death, sexual assault, and civil rights violations. With wins against powerful opponents—including a historic U.S. Supreme Court case securing equal access to justice—he’s the attorney clients trust when they need skill, strength, and results that matter. Joe Cammarata's Bio Allan M. Siegel​ Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia **Allan M. Siegel** is a board-certified trial attorney and partner at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., known for securing justice in serious personal injury, brain injury, and wrongful death cases. Recognized as one of Washington’s *Top 100 Super Lawyers®* and a *Best Lawyer®* in America, he combines strategic precision, courtroom skill, and relentless advocacy to win full and fair compensation for his clients. Allan Siegel's Bio Stephen Ollar Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia **Stephen Ollar** is an award-winning trial attorney and U.S. Army veteran dedicated to holding negligent individuals and corporations accountable. Recognized as a *Super Lawyers Rising Star* from 2020–2025, he’s known for his tenacity, precision, and unwavering pursuit of justice in personal injury, auto accident, and medical malpractice cases. Stephen Ollar's Bio ## Related Articles Read More Blog Articles E-Bike Injuries How Is An E-Bike Different From a Bicycle? Washington, DC, E-Bike Accident Lawyer DC Bike Accident Attorneys Do Bicycles Have To Obey Traffic Laws In Maryland? Do Bicycles Have To Obey Traffic Laws In Virginia? Bicycle Safety Tips Silver Spring Bicycle Accident Lawyer Bicycle Accident Attorney Fairfax, VA Dangers Of Riding a Bicycle at Night Biking at Night Imagine you’re pedaling down a quiet, tree-lined street as the sun sets. 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