Bicycle Accidents in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania law gives cyclists the same right to the road as drivers, and like pedestrians, injured cyclists generally aren't bound by limited-tort restrictions.
What you should know
Bicyclists must follow traffic laws, and drivers must give at least four feet when passing under Pennsylvania's four-foot passing rule. Because a cyclist is not a vehicle occupant for tort-election purposes, non-economic damages are typically available even under a limited-tort household policy.
What typically causes them
- Drivers passing too closely
- Dooring by parked vehicles
- Failure to yield at intersections
- Right-hook turns across a cyclist's path
- Poor road conditions
- Distracted driving
Injuries we see
- Head and brain injuries
- Collarbone and wrist fractures
- Facial injuries
- Road rash
- Spinal injuries
- Internal injuries
Steps to take after a bicycle accidents
- 1
Get medical attention
- 2
Call police for a report
- 3
Photograph the scene, bike, and injuries
- 4
Get driver and witness details
- 5
Preserve your bike and helmet
- 6
Talk to an attorney about available coverage
The four-foot passing law and cyclists' road rights are central to fault analysis. Comparative negligence applies (42 Pa.C.S. § 7102).
Recovery can include medical bills, lost wages, future care, bike replacement, and pain and suffering.
In Pennsylvania, you generally have two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit (42 Pa.C.S. § 5524). Missing this deadline usually bars your claim entirely, so it is critical to act well before it runs.
Keep reading before you talk to an adjuster
Don't let a Pennsylvania bicycle accidents ruin your future.
The clock is ticking on Pennsylvania's 2-year statute of limitations. Get a free, no-obligation case review now.