What Insurance Covers a Bike Accident?
When a car collides with a bicycle, the injuries are often serious — and the financial impact can be overwhelming. One of the first questions injured cyclists ask is: what insurance will actually cover my bike accident? The answer isn’t always straightforward. Multiple policies may apply, and knowing where to look can make a big difference in how much compensation you receive.
Auto Insurance Coverage
Even though you weren’t driving, auto insurance often plays the biggest role in bike accident claims. Specific coverage may include:
- The driver’s liability insurance: If a motorist hit you, their liability insurance should cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages — up to their policy limits.
- Your own auto insurance (PIP or MedPay): If you carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Medical Payments coverage, these benefits usually extend to you as a cyclist. This can help pay for immediate medical expenses regardless of fault.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage: If the driver fled the scene (hit-and-run) or didn’t carry enough insurance, your UM/UIM policy may step in.
Health Insurance
If you have health insurance, it may cover medical treatment for your bike accident injuries.
However, your insurer may later assert a right of subrogation — meaning they’ll seek reimbursement from any settlement you receive.
It’s important to coordinate with your attorney so you don’t get caught off guard by repayment demands.
Homeowners or Renters Insurance
Many cyclists are surprised to learn that their homeowners or renters insurance can sometimes apply. Consider the following scenarios:
- If your bike is damaged in a collision, the property damage portion of your policy may cover replacement or repair.
- If you accidentally cause an accident that injures someone else, your liability coverage under homeowners or renters insurance may also come into play.
Specialized Bicycle Insurance
Some cyclists purchase stand-alone bike insurance policies.
These often cover high-value bicycles, gear, theft, and sometimes even injuries or liability from crashes.
If you’re a frequent rider, it may be worth considering.
Contact Justice Through Compensation for Help
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident, please know that the law firm of Justice Through Compensation is here to help. Our legal team is skilled, experienced, and passionate in their representation. Let us shoulder the burden of an injury claim or lawsuit while you focus on healing from your injuries. Contact us today for the quality legal help you deserve.