
If you're involved in a bicycle-car accident, understanding the insurance claim process can be overwhelming. The first step is to report the incident to the police and gather all relevant documentation, including photos of the accident scene and witness statements.
Bicycle insurance policies typically have a deductible, which is the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. According to our research, the average deductible for bicycle insurance is around $500.
You'll also need to notify your insurance provider as soon as possible, usually within 24-48 hours of the accident. This will help prevent any delays in processing your claim.
Keep in mind that different insurance policies have varying levels of coverage, so it's essential to review your policy documents carefully to understand what's covered and what's not.
Insurance Coverage and Entitlements
If you're involved in a bicycle car accident, you may be entitled to insurance coverage for your injuries and damages. In California, you must file a claim through the negligent party's insurance company, which can then seek reimbursement from the driver's car insurance provider.

The type of coverage you're eligible for depends on the circumstances of the accident. If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may apply to provide compensation for your injuries and damages.
In Michigan, you can make a bicycle car accident insurance claim for No-Fault benefits by filing an application with the responsible auto insurance company within one year after the crash. The No-Fault PIP benefits you may be able to recover will help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, mileage and transportation costs, household replacement services, and attendant care services.
The No-Fault medical coverage level in Michigan policies issued or renewed after July 1, 2020, can be one of the following:
- $50,000 for accident-related medical expenses (when the named insured on the policy is “enrolled in Medicaid”)
- $250,000 for accident-related medical expenses
- $500,000 for accident-related medical expenses
- Unlimited or no dollar-amount limit for accident-related medical expenses
- No No-Fault coverage for auto accident-related medical expenses (Medicare/Opt-out)
Does My Auto Insurance Cover?
If you're involved in a bike accident, your auto insurance may cover you, but it depends on the circumstances. If the driver who hit you has no insurance or insufficient coverage, you may need to rely on your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.

In Illinois, you can guarantee protection by carrying UM/UIM coverage, which is also known as "UM/UIM" coverage. This type of insurance protects you even if the other driver doesn't have insurance.
If the driver has insurance, but only the minimum required by the state, you may still need your own UM/UIM coverage to cover the full extent of your injuries and damages. For example, if a claim is worth $50,000 and the driver has only $25,000 in insurance.
Here are some situations where your auto insurance may cover you:
- If you were hit by an uninsured driver and have UM/UIM coverage.
- If you were involved in a hit-and-run accident.
- If the driver who hit you has insurance, but only the minimum required by the state.
It's essential to note that even if your auto insurance covers you, the insurance company may still dispute, delay, or deny your claim. That's why it's crucial to have an experienced bicycle accident attorney who can advocate for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
PIP or MedPay Coverage
In some states, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Medical Payments (MedPay) coverage can help cover medical expenses resulting from a bicycle accident.

PIP coverage is mandatory in some states, but not in others. For example, in Connecticut, PIP coverage is not mandatory, but some insurance policies may include optional MedPay coverage.
If you have MedPay coverage, it may help cover your medical expenses resulting from the bicycle accident. A bicycle accident lawyer can help you recover damages.
In Michigan, filing an application for No-Fault benefits within one year after the crash is crucial to receive No-Fault PIP benefits, which can help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs.
The No-Fault PIP medical benefits coverage level in Michigan can affect your ability to pay medical bills. The coverage level depends on the policy selected, and the limits range from $50,000 to unlimited, depending on the policy and the state's laws.
Here are the No-Fault medical coverage levels in Michigan:
- $50,000 for accident-related medical expenses (when the named insured on the policy is “enrolled in Medicaid”)
- $250,000 for accident-related medical expenses
- $500,000 for accident-related medical expenses
- Unlimited or no dollar-amount limit for accident-related medical expenses
- No No-Fault coverage for auto accident-related medical expenses (Medicare/Opt-out)
Medical and Financial Assistance
In Michigan, the No-Fault PIP medical benefits coverage level selected in the policy will determine how much a bicyclist can pay for medical bills through a bicycle car accident insurance claim. The coverage level will be one of the following: $50,000, $250,000, $500,000, unlimited, or no dollar-amount limit.

You may also be able to seek medical coverage through your health insurance plan or Medicare or Medicaid. In some cases, No-Fault medical coverage through the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan is capped at $250,000.
Here are some potential expenses you can be compensated for after a bicycle accident:
- Ambulance fees
- Emergency medical care
- Surgical procedures
- Hospital fees, including overnight stay fees
- Follow-up doctor’s appointments
- The cost to repair or replace your bicycle
- Replacement income if you cannot work while you’re recovering from your bicycle injury
- Future income if you cannot return to work due to a temporary or permanent disability
Pain and Suffering Compensation
Pain and suffering compensation can be a crucial aspect of recovering from a bike accident. In Michigan, to recover for pain and suffering compensation, a bicyclist must show that they have suffered a serious impairment of body function.
Bicyclists can file a bike car accident insurance claim and may be able to recover pain and suffering damages. This type of compensation is also called "noneconomic loss" damages.
Pain and suffering compensation will generally be paid through the liability coverage of the at-fault driver's third-party car insurance. Alternatively, it can be paid through the bicyclist's uninsured motorist coverage or underinsured motorist coverage.

Uninsured motorist coverage applies when the at-fault motorist has no insurance or has fled the scene and is considered a "hit-and-run" driver. In this case, UM coverage allows the bicyclist to recover the compensation and damages from their auto insurance company.
Underinsured motorist coverage allows an injured bicyclist to recover from their auto insurance company the compensation and damages that were not covered by the at-fault driver's liability coverage.
Paying Medical Bills
If you're involved in a bicycle accident in Michigan, you'll want to know how to pay for your medical bills. The No-Fault PIP medical benefits coverage level in your policy will determine how much you can pay for medical expenses.
In Michigan, the No-Fault medical coverage level depends on your policy, and it's capped at $250,000 through the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan.
You may be able to seek medical coverage through your health insurance plan, Medicare, or Medicaid.
Here are the different No-Fault medical coverage levels available in Michigan:
- $50,000 for accident-related medical expenses (when the named insured on the policy is “enrolled in Medicaid”)
- $250,000 for accident-related medical expenses
- $500,000 for accident-related medical expenses
- Unlimited or no dollar-amount limit for accident-related medical expenses
- No No-Fault coverage for auto accident-related medical expenses (Medicare/Opt-out)
It's essential to file an application for No-Fault benefits within one year after the crash to ensure you receive the medical coverage you need.
Medical Documentation

Medical documentation is a crucial step in supporting your claim for injuries and related expenses. Obtain medical records, bills, and reports to establish the extent of your injuries and the financial impact on your life.
These documents will help you build a strong case for compensation. Medical records can include doctor's notes, test results, and treatment plans.
Having all necessary documentation can make a big difference in the outcome of your claim. Medical bills and reports can help quantify the financial impact of your injuries.
Keep in mind that the quality and thoroughness of your medical documentation can affect the success of your claim.
Negligent Drivers and Uninsured Motorists
If you're involved in a bicycle accident with a negligent driver, their auto insurance will cover your injuries under their injury coverage.
If the driver only carries the minimum coverage required by the state or doesn't have insurance, you'll need your own underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage.

A hit-and-run accident or an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver can be especially challenging to seek compensation for.
Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage becomes especially important in these situations.
If the negligent driver doesn't have insurance, your UM/UIM coverage may apply to provide compensation for your injuries and damages.
The Claims Process
If you're involved in a bicycle accident with a car, you'll need to file a claim with the driver's insurance company to seek compensation. This is a crucial step in getting the help you need.
To start the claims process, you should report your bike accident to the police immediately and get medical care right away. This will create a record of your bike accident and your injuries.
You'll also need to make copies of all important documents, including the police accident report, your medical bills, and other medical records related to your accident. This will help support your claim.
Next, you'll need to file a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company, as Illinois has an at-fault car insurance system. This means the at-fault driver's car insurance company is liable for damages to other parties, up to policy limits.
The Process

You need to report your bike accident to the police immediately to create a record of the incident. This will help you prove you were involved in an accident and sustained an injury.
In Illinois, you have two years from the date of your bicycle accident to file a claim or a lawsuit seeking damages. This is known as the statute of limitations, and it's essential to act within this timeframe.
Gather as much evidence as possible to support your claim, including photographs of the accident scene, the damaged bicycle, and your injuries. Obtain contact information from any witnesses who can provide statements about the incident.
To file a claim, you'll need to provide the at-fault driver's insurance company with the necessary details, including the date, time, location, and a description of the incident. Be honest and accurate in your account of the events.
Make sure to collect copies of all important documents, such as the police accident report, your medical bills, and other medical records related to your accident. This will help you build a strong case for your claim.
Negotiation and Settlement

The insurance company will investigate the accident and evaluate your claim to determine a fair settlement amount. This process can take some time, but it's essential to get a settlement that accurately reflects your damages.
Your attorney will help you negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive a fair settlement. They'll consider factors like your injuries, medical expenses, property damage, and pain and suffering.
The insurance company may offer a settlement amount that seems reasonable at first, but your attorney will review it carefully to make sure it's enough to cover all your damages. They'll negotiate on your behalf to get a better deal.
A fair settlement should account for all applicable damages, including medical expenses, property damage, and pain and suffering. This is where having an experienced attorney makes a big difference.
Limitations and Considerations
In Connecticut, the rules for recovering compensation after a bicycle accident are specific. The state follows a modified comparative negligence rule with a 51% bar, meaning you may be barred from recovering any compensation if you're found to be 51% or more at fault for the accident.

Car insurance coverage for bicycle accidents has limitations. The driver's auto insurance company may offer a settlement that includes economic damages, such as medical bills and lost wages, but often doesn't include non-economic damages.
You'll want to work with a bicycle accident lawyer to understand the specifics of your case and how to navigate these limitations. They can help you make sense of the complex rules and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Exceeding $10,000 Damage Threshold
Exceeding $10,000 in damages can have severe consequences. This is because it typically triggers a mandatory insurance reporting requirement.
You'll need to notify your insurance company immediately if you exceed this threshold. This is a non-negotiable step.
The insurance company will then take over the claims process, which may include hiring a claims adjuster to assess the damage. This can be a lengthy process.
Keep in mind that exceeding $10,000 in damages may also impact your credit score if you don't pay the claim promptly. This can have long-term financial implications.

Your insurance company may also require you to provide detailed documentation and proof of the damage. This can include receipts, invoices, and photographs.
In some cases, exceeding $10,000 in damages may even lead to a lawsuit if the parties involved cannot come to an agreement. This can be a stressful and costly experience.
Consult an Attorney
Consulting with an attorney can be a crucial step in navigating the aftermath of a bicycle accident. An attorney who specializes in bicycle accident cases can guide you through the claims process.
They can help negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected. This can be especially helpful if the insurance company is being uncooperative or unwilling to provide a fair settlement.
Limitations and Considerations
If you're involved in a bicycle accident, it's essential to know the limitations of car insurance coverage. Connecticut follows a modified comparative negligence rule with a 51% bar, meaning if you're found to be 51% or more at fault, you might be barred from recovering any compensation.

In some cases, the driver's auto insurance company may offer a settlement that includes economic damages, such as medical bills and lost wages. However, these settlements often don't cover non-economic damages.
Bicycle accident lawyers can help explain the specifics of your case and guide you through the process. They can also help you navigate the complexities of insurance coverage and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Coverage Limits
Coverage limits are a crucial aspect of car insurance policies, and it's essential to understand how they work. The maximum amount the insurance company will pay out for a claim is the coverage limit.
If damages exceed the coverage limit, you may need to explore other avenues for compensation, such as your own health insurance or personal assets of the at-fault driver. This can be a significant financial burden, so it's vital to know what you're up against.
Car insurance policies have specific coverage limits, and it's essential to review your policy to understand what's covered and what's not. This will help you avoid unexpected expenses and financial surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does car insurance cover hitting cyclist?
Car insurance typically covers liability for injuries and damages if the driver is at fault in a collision with a cyclist. However, if the cyclist is at fault, the driver's insurance may not cover their injuries or damages
Sources
- https://keatinglegal.com/bicycle-accidents/how-to-file-insurance-claim/
- https://www.michiganautolaw.com/bicycle-accident-lawyer/bicycle-car-accident-insurance-claim/
- https://floridacyclinglaw.com/blog/submitting-bike-damage-claim-to-insurance-company
- https://khalillawgroup.com/bicycle-accident/who-pays-understanding-bicycle-accident-insurance-in-orange-county/
- https://www.injuredct.com/faqs/does-car-insurance-cover-bicycle-accidents/
Featured Images: pexels.com