How Often Do Bicyclists Crash Into Pedestrians?

How often do these crashes tend to happen? Although crashes between bicyclists and pedestrians are rare, they do happen. These often fall under the category of a pedestrian accident, especially when the person walking suffers injuries. Unfortunately, few national reports break down this specific type of accident, making it hard to track how often these incidents occur.

While exact national numbers are hard to find, estimates show over 66,000 pedestrians were treated in ERs for bike-related crashes in a recent 10-year period, with thousands more reported in states like California and New York. Here are some key findings from available studies:

Many official crash reports separate bicycle and pedestrian incidents from one another, making it difficult to understand how often these groups collide or how severe the outcomes are.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 68,244 pedestrian injuries and 49,989 cyclist injuries in traffic crashes in 2023. These numbers mostly reflect motor vehicle accidents, not cyclist-pedestrian collisions, making the data on bike-pedestrian crashes even more limited.

Still, with more people walking and biking in shared spaces, these accidents remain a growing concern. Cyclists and pedestrians should follow traffic rules and stay alert to avoid collisions.

When an accident happens, AK Law stands ready to help victims understand their rights and options. Our lawyers handle both pedestrian and bicycle accidents, including other motor vehicle collisions. Call (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation.

Why Do Some Bicyclists Crash Into Pedestrians?

Bicyclist-pedestrian collisions may not happen as often as other bicycle-related traffic accidents, but when they do, they can lead to serious injuries or long-term disabilities. Since neither person has the protection of a vehicle, a pedestrian accident involving a bicycle often results in emergency care, hospitalization, or a long recovery period.

These crashes often occur in places people expect to be safe, such as parks, sidewalks, crosswalks, and shared-use paths. Learning what causes these accidents can help both bicyclists and pedestrians take steps to avoid them.

The following are some of the most common reasons why these bike accidents happen:

Distracted Riding

Cyclists may become distracted by phones, headphones, or busy surroundings. This distraction may lead to:

• Poor timing
• Missed stops
• Braking too late

However, pedestrians could also share the same error if they get distracted while walking. Both road users are responsible for staying alert and maintaining safety.

Low Visibility Conditions

Poor visibility makes it harder for cyclists and pedestrians to see one another and react in time. This risk increases during:

• Nighttime — It’s harder to see in the dark, especially if there are no streetlights or bike lights.
• Fog — Hazy conditions make it hard to see pedestrians until it’s too late.
• Rainy Weather — Wet roads can reduce traction and visibility, increasing the chance of a crash.

Using front and rear bike lights, reflectors, or bright clothing can help reduce the risk of collisions in low-light conditions.

Poor Road Design And Flawed Infrastructure

In many areas, there is no clear separation between bike lanes, sidewalks, or pedestrian paths. Issues that may cause cyclists and pedestrians to end up in each other’s way:

• No physical barriers.
• No painted or raised markings.
• Not enough space for both modes of travel.

This confusion increases the risk of a pedestrian accident, especially in high-traffic zones.

Poor road conditions also increase the danger. Cyclists may swerve unexpectedly to avoid:

• Cracks
• Potholes
• Loose gravel or debris

If a pedestrian is nearby, a collision may happen.

Speeding

When cyclists ride too fast, they have less time to react to sudden changes in their environment. Speeding is especially dangerous in crowded areas, including:

• Downtown streets
• School zones
• Parks
• Shared-use paths

High speeds reduce the time they have to stop or swerve, which makes accidents more likely. Slower speeds give cyclists more control and help keep pedestrians safer.

Confusion About Who Has The Right-of-Way

Some cyclists are unclear about when to stop for pedestrians. This confusion may lead to crashes, especially at:

• Crosswalks without traffic signals.
• Unmarked intersections.
• Shared sidewalks or paths.

Following local right-of-way laws helps prevent these incidents.

Impaired Riding

Cyclists who ride while impaired may have delayed reflexes and poor judgment. This increases the risk of causing a pedestrian accident. Common causes of impairment include:

• Fatigue or being overly tired.
• Use of alcohol, drugs, or certain medications.

Just like motorists, bicyclists must be sober and alert to operate safely.

Not Stopping At Crosswalks

Some cyclists do not slow down or stop for people in crosswalks, especially when there are no signs or traffic lights.

However, pedestrians usually have the right-of-way at:

• Marked crosswalks.
• Unmarked crosswalks at intersections.

Even when no one appears to be crossing, cyclists should reduce speed. Pedestrians may step into the crosswalk unexpectedly, and slowing down helps avoid collisions. Pedestrian accident lawyers can help victims understand their rights in such situations.

Who Should Be Liable When Bicyclists Crash Into Pedestrians?

At first, it might seem like the bicyclist is always at fault in a crash with a pedestrian. However, determining liability takes a closer look at what happened and who acted carelessly.

For example:

• A pedestrian accident lawyer might argue that the cyclist was going too fast and failed to slow down.
• Meanwhile, an attorney for the bike rider might claim the pedestrian stepped out suddenly, giving the cyclist no time to stop.

Because neither party has much protection, both cyclists and pedestrians can suffer serious injuries. That said, people often hold cyclists at fault because of the following factors:

• Speed and Control — Bicyclists typically move faster and have more control than pedestrians.
• Pedestrian Priority — In most cases, people walking have the right of way at crosswalks and on sidewalks.
• Legal Responsibilities — Cyclists must follow the same rules as car drivers in California. This includes yielding to pedestrians and using care when approaching crossings.

When a cyclist hits a pedestrian, it often suggests they failed to keep a proper lookout or didn’t follow safety laws. Pedestrian accident lawyers can gather evidence and review the facts to help determine liability.

Determining Liability When Bicycles Hit Pedestrians

When a cyclist accidentally hits a pedestrian, it can sometimes be difficult to determine who’s at fault. The law usually looks at negligence, which means someone didn’t act with the care they should have. To show that someone was negligent, a few elements must be present:

• Duty of Care — The person had a legal responsibility to act safely.
  • Cyclists must ride carefully, obey traffic laws, and avoid putting others at risk.
  • Pedestrians must use crosswalks, follow signals, and stay alert near roads and bike paths.
• Breach of Duty — The person acted carelessly or violated traffic laws.
• Causation — Their actions directly led to the accident.
• Damages — The pedestrian or cyclist suffered injuries or losses, such as medical bills or missed work.

To evaluate fault in these accidents, Bicycle and pedestrian accident lawyers often look at the following:

• Location of the Accident — Did it happen in a bike lane, on a sidewalk, or at a crosswalk? The setting affects who had the right to be there and may influence liability.
• Traffic Laws — Each city or state may have different rules for bike and pedestrian interactions. Violating these rules often points to fault.
• Evidence — Police reports, witness accounts, or video footage can clarify what happened and support a legal claim.

If you sustained injuries in a crash as a pedestrian or cyclist, accident lawyers can help you explore your legal options.

Shared Liability In These Types Of Collisions

Sometimes, both the cyclist and the pedestrian may share the blame. This is called comparative negligence. California follows this rule, which allows each party to be held responsible based on their level of fault. Here are a couple of examples:

Example 1:  Someone riding on the sidewalk in a city where it is not allowed may crash into a pedestrian from behind. Because this violates a local rule, the cyclist may be mostly at fault. However, if the pedestrian was texting and not paying attention, they could also share responsibility for the collision.

Example 2:  In another case, a pedestrian walks in a bike lane near an intersection and gets hit by a rider coming from the opposite direction. If the rider was going too fast or not paying attention, they might be partly at fault. The pedestrian could also share blame for using an area meant for bikes.

Pedestrian and bicycle accident lawyers assist people in understanding these tricky cases. They look at local laws, talk to witnesses, and ask experts for advice to see if both sides share the blame.

How Bicyclists Can Help Prevent Crashes With Pedestrians

Cyclists can avoid many pedestrian accidents by staying alert and following basic safety rules. These tips can help prevent collisions in shared spaces:

• Stay Alert at All Times — Keep your eyes on the path ahead, especially in crowded areas like parks, sidewalks, and crosswalks.
• Use Bike Lanes and Follow Traffic Signs — Ride in the correct lane and obey all signs and signals, just like car drivers do.
• Yield to Pedestrians — Slow down and let people walk first when you’re at a crosswalk or shared area.
• Be Visible — Wear bright or reflective clothing and use front and rear bike lights when riding at night or in low light.
• Give a Warning — Use a bell or call out politely, such as saying, “On your left,” so pedestrians know you’re coming.

Pedestrians also play a role in preventing accidents. When both sides pay attention and follow the rules, they can avoid serious injuries.

What To Do If A Bicyclist Hits You

Getting hit by a bicycle can be serious, so take immediate steps to protect yourself and gather evidence. Here are some recommended actions to consider:

1. Get Medical Assistance — Even if your injuries seem minor, see a doctor. Some injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Call 911 if you need emergency care or can’t move safely.
2. Exchange Information — Share names, phone numbers, addresses, and insurance details with the other party. If there are witnesses, get their contact information too.
3. Document the Scene — Take pictures of your injuries, the crash area, and anything else that could help later. Note the time, weather, and nearby cameras, if any, might have recorded what happened.
4. Report the Accident — File a police report. An official record can support your case later on.
5. Consult a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer — If you’re unsure who was at fault or need legal guidance, a lawyer can help. Pedestrian accident attorneys can:
   1. Review your case and explain your legal options.
   2. Calculate your losses, including medical costs and lost income.
   3. Handle communications with insurers and/or other parties.
   4. Represent you in settlement talks or court if needed.

While pedestrians often suffer serious injuries in these crashes, bicyclists can also be badly hurt. For example, on June 18, 2025, a bicyclist died in Central Park after hitting a pedestrian and striking their head. In serious cases, a bicycle accident lawyer can help riders or their families understand their rights, too.

Frequently Asked Questions On Pedestrian Accidents Caused By Bicyclists

Many people feel confused or overwhelmed after a crash with a bicyclist. Below are answers to common questions on pedestrian accidents involving bikes. For help with your specific situation, call our team at (888) 488-1391.

How often do bicyclists crash into pedestrians?

Although precise national statistics are limited, research shows these incidents are more common than most people realize. One study estimated that over 66,000 pedestrians were treated in U.S. emergency rooms for bicycle-related injuries between 2006 and 2016. In high-traffic states like California and New York, state hospital data revealed thousands of additional injuries, with 7,904 hospitalizations in New York and 6,177 in California during similar time frames. These collisions, though underreported, are a growing safety concern, especially in shared-use spaces like sidewalks, parks, and crosswalks.

Should Pedestrians Yield To Bicyclists In California?

It depends on where the pedestrian is. Under California law, pedestrians always have the right of way at marked crosswalks and unmarked crosswalks at intersections. Cyclists, like drivers, must stop or slow down for pedestrians in these areas.

However, if someone crosses the street outside of a crosswalk, they must yield to oncoming traffic, including bicycles.

In bike lanes, cyclists have the right-of-way. Pedestrian accident lawyers often review these traffic rules to help determine who was at fault.

How Does An Insurance Company Cover Pedestrian Accidents When A Bicyclist Is At Fault?

If a bicyclist causes a pedestrian accident, their homeowners’ or renters’ insurance may cover the injuries under personal liability protection. This type of insurance can help pay for:

• Medical Bills — This includes costs for emergency care, surgery, hospital stays, or treatments like chiropractic care and physical therapy.
• Lost Income — This covers wages missed during recovery and possibly future income if the injury causes lasting effects.
• Damaged Items — The insurance company may cover personal items like phones, glasses, or laptops damaged in the crash.

If the bicyclist has no insurance, the pedestrian may need to use their own health insurance. They might also consider legal action to get compensation for their injuries. A pedestrian accident attorney can help them understand their rights and what other steps they can take.

What Can Be Considered Pedestrian Negligence In California?

A pedestrian may be partly at fault for a crash if they act in an unsafe way. Examples include:

• Jaywalking — Crossing outside of a crosswalk. While this is no longer automatically illegal in California, pedestrians must still do it safely.
• Ignoring Traffic Signals — Walking when the signal says “Don’t Walk” or crossing during a red light.
• Distracted Walking — Using a phone, wearing headphones, or not paying attention near roads or bike lanes.
• Sudden Movements — Stepping into traffic without warning.
• Walking While Impaired — Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs near streets or intersections.

Even if a pedestrian shares some responsibility, that doesn’t automatically excuse the cyclist. Both parties have to follow safety rules.

What Injuries Are Common In Bicycle-Pedestrian Accidents?

Because there’s little protection in these crashes, injuries can be serious for both cyclists and pedestrians. Common injuries include:

• Head Injuries — Concussions or traumatic brain injuries from hitting the ground.
• Spinal Cord Injuries — Damage to the neck or back that may cause long-term mobility problems.
• Bone Fractures — Arms, legs, ribs, or wrists can break on impact.
• Cuts and Scrapes — Deep wounds from pavement, glass, or debris
• Internal Injuries — Damage to organs like the liver or spleen and internal bleeding.

If you were hurt in a crash like this, you might ask, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” In many cases, the answer is yes. Injury attorneys can explain your rights and help you take the right next steps.

When Bicyclists Crash Into Pedestrians, Victims Have Legal Options

The bottom line is, these collisions are rare but serious, and they happen more often than most people realize. Bicycle-pedestrian crashes can lead to serious injuries, medical bills, lost income, and other hardships. If you sustain injuries in this type of collision, you may have legal options.

Our car accident lawyers and pedestrian accident attorneys help injured clients understand their rights and take the next steps. We explain the process, help gather evidence, and work to resolve your case while you focus on healing.

At Arash Law, we believe everyone should have access to justice, no matter their background or immigration status. If you’re recovering from a bicycle or pedestrian accident, you may be looking for the best personal injury lawyer to guide you. While no attorney can claim to be the best, our team is here to explain your rights, answer your questions, and help you take the next step.

We offer free accident lawyer advice during your initial consultation, and our team can assist you in English or your preferred language. If your injuries make travel difficult, we can come to you anywhere in California.

Call Arash Law today at (888) 488-1391 to learn how we can help after a pedestrian or bicycle accident.