Cyclists struck by Uber or Lyft vehicles face particularly severe injuries due to their vulnerability. Bicyclists can access rideshare insurance coverage and pursue claims without being bound by arbitration agreements they never signed.
Common Rideshare-Cyclist Collision Scenarios
Rideshare drivers and cyclists frequently collide in predictable situations:
Dooring: Passengers exiting rideshare vehicles open doors into bike lanes, striking cyclists. The passenger, driver, and rideshare company may all share liability.
Right hook turns: Drivers turning right cut across bike lanes without checking for cyclists.
Pulling to curb: Drivers stopping suddenly for pickups or dropoffs cross bike lanes without looking.
Distracted driving: Drivers checking apps for passenger locations or navigation fail to notice cyclists.
Double-parked vehicles: Rideshare vehicles blocking bike lanes force cyclists into traffic.
Severe Cyclist Injuries
Cyclists struck by vehicles suffer devastating injuries:
Traumatic brain injuries: Even helmeted cyclists suffer head trauma in collisions.
Spinal injuries: Impact can cause paralysis or permanent nerve damage.
Fractures: Broken collarbones, arms, legs, and hips are common.
Road rash: Severe skin abrasions requiring grafts.
Internal injuries: Organ damage from impact forces.
Insurance Coverage for Cyclists
Cyclists injured by rideshare drivers access the same coverage as other third parties:
$1 million coverage during active rides (Periods 2-3).
Limited coverage of $50,000/$100,000 during Period 1.
Driver's personal insurance when the app is off.
Dooring Claims
Dooring presents unique liability questions:
Passenger liability: The person who opened the door may be directly liable.
Driver liability: Drivers may be responsible for warning passengers about bike traffic or choosing safe dropoff locations.
Rideshare company liability: Arguments that the company should implement safety warnings or require drivers to check for cyclists.
Legal Advantages for Cyclists
No arbitration requirement: Cyclists never agreed to rideshare terms of service.
Strong fault arguments: Motorists owe heightened duties to vulnerable road users.
Significant damages: Severe cyclist injuries support substantial compensation claims.
Evidence Preservation
Cyclists should:
Document the scene: Photo the bike lane, vehicle position, and door opening clearance.
Preserve the bicycle: Damage patterns show impact force and angle.
Get witness information: Other cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers may have seen the collision.
Note rideshare indicators: Decals, signs, or passengers in the vehicle.
Seek immediate medical care: Many cycling injuries worsen without treatment.
Pursuing Your Claim
Cyclists injured by rideshare vehicles should consult with attorneys experienced in both bicycle accidents and rideshare litigation to maximize recovery through all available insurance sources.