St. Louis Bicycle Accident Lawyer

After a bicycle crash, proving who was at fault can affect your injury claim. Thompson Law helps injured cyclists assess liability, build their case, and pursue compensation for their losses

Call Now: 314-650-8520
Get Free Case Review →

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in St. Louis

Your health comes first after a bicycle accident. Seek medical care even if you feel fine. These steps can help document the crash and protect your legal options.

1. Get Medical Attention

Seek medical care promptly, follow your doctor’s treatment recommendations, and keep copies of medical records, prescriptions, and follow-up instructions.

2. Report the Accident

Contact the police to report the collision. Request the crash report number and ask how to obtain a copy.

3. Collect Evidence

Photograph your bicycle, involved vehicles, visible injuries, road conditions, traffic signals, and bike lane markings, if possible.

4. Get Witness Information

Collect witnesses’ names and contact details. Write down what you remember about the collision while the details remain fresh.

5. Keep Records of Your Losses

Save medical bills, prescriptions, repair estimates, transportation expenses, and records of missed work to document your accident-related losses.

6. Be Careful With Insurance Calls

Avoid speculating about fault or injuries. Consider legal advice before giving a recorded statement or accepting an insurance settlement.

7. Speak With a Bicycle Accident Lawyer

A lawyer can review the crash, assess potential liability, and explain how Missouri law may affect your claim.

Talk to a Lawyer →

Why Choose Thompson Law for Your St. Louis Bicycle Accident Case?

After a bicycle accident, you may face medical expenses, lost income, and questions about who is responsible. Thompson Law helps injured cyclists evaluate their claims and pursue compensation based on the facts of the case.

Insurance-Defense Experience

Tyler Thompson spent 12 years working with major insurance carriers. He uses that experience to assess how insurers evaluate claims and prepare cases for negotiation.

Identifying Responsible Parties

We review driver behavior, road conditions, and available evidence to identify who may be responsible for the collision.

Building Your Case

We examine the evidence, document your injuries and losses, and prepare your claim. If the insurer will not offer fair compensation, we can evaluate the next steps.

No Upfront Attorney Fees

We handle bicycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis. You pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.

Discuss Your Case →

How Thompson Law Can Help With a Bicycle Accident Claim

Bicycle crashes often turn on disputed facts and injuries. Tyler Thompson handles these questions personally.

Investigating the Crash

We obtain the crash report, photograph the scene and your bicycle, and collect witness statements.

Preserving Evidence

We request available video quickly, since footage is often overwritten, and document road conditions like potholes or missing signage.

Identifying Responsible Parties

An employer, vehicle owner, or government entity may share liability, depending on the facts.

Reviewing Insurance Coverage

We review the at-fault driver’s coverage and any policies that may apply, including your own uninsured motorist coverage.

Documenting Injuries and Losses

We review medical bills, lost wages, bicycle repair costs, and how injuries affect your daily life.

Negotiating With Insurance Companies

Tyler spent 12 years defending insurance companies, so he knows how adjusters evaluate claims and offers.

Preparing for Litigation

If negotiations fail to produce a fair resolution, we discuss whether filing a lawsuit makes sense.

Every case depends on its facts, and we can’t guarantee an outcome. Past results do not predict future outcomes.

Contact Thompson Law →

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in St. Louis

Bicycle accidents can occur at intersections, along bike lanes, on neighborhood streets, or where road conditions create hazards. Common causes include unsafe driving, traffic violations, and poorly maintained road surfaces.

Distracted Driving

A motorist looking at a phone or focusing on another activity may overlook a cyclist sharing the road.

Unsafe Passing

Passing too closely can strike a cyclist or force them off the road. Missouri law establishes requirements for motorists overtaking bicycles.

Failure to Yield

Failing to yield at intersections or when entering a roadway can place cyclists directly in the path of approaching vehicles.

Unsafe Turns

Left and right turns can cause collisions when motorists fail to check for cyclists traveling alongside them or crossing their path.

Opening Car Doors

Opening a parked vehicle’s door without checking for approaching cyclists can create a sudden obstacle, leaving riders little time to react.

Speeding

Excessive speed reduces reaction time and can increase collision severity when a cyclist enters the vehicle’s path.

Ignoring Traffic Signals

Running red lights or stop signs can cause collisions with cyclists traveling through intersections or legally crossing the roadway.

Driving Under the Influence

Alcohol or drugs can impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making it harder for motorists to notice cyclists and respond safely.

Unsafe Road Conditions

Potholes, loose gravel, and broken pavement can cause cyclists to lose control. Depending on the circumstances, road maintenance issues may warrant investigation.

Types of Bicycle Accident Cases We Handle

Vehicle Collisions

Injuries from impacts involving cars, SUVs, commercial trucks, or delivery vehicles when another party’s negligence contributes to the crash.

Distracted Driving

Phone use or other distractions can keep motorists from noticing cyclists and responding in time to changing road conditions.

Impaired Driving

Alcohol or drugs can affect a motorist’s judgment, coordination, and reaction time, increasing the risk of collisions with cyclists.

Intersection Crashes

Turning vehicles, missed signals, and failure to yield can put cyclists at risk when crossing or traveling through intersections.

Unsafe Passing

Insufficient clearance when overtaking a cyclist can cause sideswipes, loss of control, or force riders off the road.

Dooring Accidents

Opening a parked vehicle’s door without checking for approaching riders can leave cyclists with little time to avoid impact.

Hit-and-Run

Leaving the scene without stopping to exchange information or offer assistance can make it harder to identify the responsible motorist.

Road Hazards

Potholes, loose gravel, broken pavement, and other surface defects can interfere with bicycle control and contribute to crashes.

Child Cyclists

Children riding bicycles may face risks from vehicle traffic, unsafe maneuvers, and road conditions that make navigating streets difficult.

Multiple Parties

Drivers, vehicle owners, employers, or other entities may share responsibility when their actions or omissions contribute to a bicycle collision.

Serious Injuries

Severe harm may require emergency treatment, ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and time away from work or everyday activities.

This list is not exhaustive. Each case has its own facts and legal considerations. We can review your situation and help you understand your options.

Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Bicycle Accident?

The driver involved in a bicycle accident may be responsible for the resulting injuries. Depending on the circumstances, other people or businesses may also share responsibility.

The At-Fault Driver

A driver may be liable for injuries caused by negligent actions such as distracted driving, speeding, unsafe passing, or failure to yield.

Employers and Commercial Businesses

If a driver was working when the accident occurred, an employer or business may share responsibility, depending on the circumstances and applicable law.

Trucking and Delivery Companies

When a bicycle accident involves a commercial vehicle, review the circumstances to determine whether the company shares responsibility.

Vehicle Owners

In some situations, the vehicle owner may share legal responsibility alongside the driver. Liability depends on the facts and applicable law.

Government Entities

If a dangerous road surface, poorly maintained bike path, or other public property condition contributed to the crash, you may need to consider a government entity.* These claims may involve specific legal requirements and deadlines.*

Other Responsible Parties

A maintenance company, contractor, or another third party may share responsibility if its actions contributed to the accident.

Identifying potentially responsible parties can help clarify what insurance coverage may be available. The accident circumstances determine who may be liable.

Evidence That Can Support a Bicycle Accident Claim

Evidence can document how a bicycle accident happened, the injuries involved, and the losses that followed.

Police Reports

Accident reports may include details about the collision, people involved, witness information, and the responding officer’s observations.

Medical Records

Medical records document your injuries, treatment, and recovery following the bicycle accident.

Photos and Videos

Photos of the crash scene, bicycle damage, vehicles, road conditions, and visible injuries may help document the accident. Available traffic camera, security camera, or dashcam footage may also be useful.

Witness Statements

Witnesses may describe the collision, the actions of those involved, and scene conditions.

Bicycle and Helmet

A damaged bicycle, helmet, or other riding gear may provide information about the collision. Keep these items if possible.

Vehicle and Traffic Data

Available vehicle data, traffic camera footage, and other records may provide additional information about how the collision occurred.

Employment Records

Pay stubs, tax records, and employer statements may help document lost income resulting from accident-related injuries.

Medical Opinions

Medical professionals can explain your injuries, recommended treatment, recovery, and any lasting limitations.

Daily Impact Records

Notes about pain, mobility limitations, missed activities, and changes to your routine can document how your injuries affect everyday life.

The evidence needed depends on how the accident happened. Keep relevant records, photos, and damaged items to help document your injuries and losses.

Talk to a Lawyer →

Compensation You May Recover in a Bicycle Accident Case

If another person’s negligence caused your bicycle accident, you may be able to seek compensation for losses resulting from your injuries and damage to your property. The types of damages available depend on the facts and supporting evidence.

Medical Expenses

You may seek compensation for reasonable medical costs related to the accident, including emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgery, medication, and physical therapy.

Future Medical Care

If your injuries require ongoing treatment or rehabilitation, future medical expenses may be considered when supported by evidence of your expected medical needs.

Lost Wages

If your injuries prevent you from working, you may seek compensation for income lost during your recovery, supported by employment and income records.

Reduced Earning Capacity

If your injuries limit your ability to work or earn the same income in the future, you may seek damages for the resulting loss when supported by evidence.

Pain and Suffering

You may seek compensation for physical pain, mental anguish, physical limitations, and reduced enjoyment of activities caused by your injuries.

Bicycle and Property Damage

You may seek compensation for damage to your bicycle, helmet, clothing, and other personal property damaged in the collision.

Other Accident-Related Expenses

Depending on the circumstances, you may recover documented expenses for transportation to medical appointments or necessary household assistance.

Not every category applies to every case. The damages you may recover depend on the circumstances, available evidence, and applicable law.

How Much Is a St. Louis Bicycle Accident Worth?

There is no fixed settlement amount for a bicycle accident. A cyclist with minor injuries may have very different losses from someone who needs surgery or cannot return to work.

The value of your claim may depend on:

  • The type and severity of your injuries
  • Your medical expenses and future treatment needs
  • How long you are unable to work
  • Whether your injuries affect your future earning ability
  • The pain and limitations caused by the crash
  • The strength of the evidence showing who was at fault
  • Whether another party shares responsibility
  • The insurance coverage available
  • The cost of repairing or replacing your bicycle and equipment
  • The long-term effect of your injuries on daily life

Missouri’s comparative fault rules may reduce your compensation if you share responsibility for the accident, and an attorney can review your injuries, expenses, and evidence to assess your potential claim. 

Talk to a Lawyer →

Missouri Bicycle Accident Laws That May Affect Your Case

§516.120 RSMo – Statute of Limitations

Missouri generally allows five years to file a personal injury lawsuit under §516.120 RSMo. Different deadlines or exceptions may apply depending on the claim and circumstances.

Bicycle Rider Rights

Under §307.188 RSMo, bicycle riders generally have the same rights and duties as motor vehicle drivers on streets and highways, subject to specific bicycle laws and exceptions. 

Safe Passing Distance

Under §304.678 RSMo, motorists overtaking a bicycle must leave a safe distance and maintain clearance until safely past the cyclist. 

Comparative Fault

Missouri follows a pure comparative fault system. If a cyclist shares responsibility for an accident, damages may be reduced in proportion to the cyclist’s share of fault rather than automatically barred.

Claims Against Government Entities

If a dangerous road surface or poorly maintained public property contributed to a bicycle accident, you may need to consider a government entity. Sovereign immunity, applicable exceptions, and specific legal requirements can affect these claims.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Under §379.203 RSMo, Missouri automobile liability policies generally include uninsured motorist coverage, subject to statutory requirements. Depending on the policy and circumstances, this coverage may provide a source of recovery when an uninsured driver injures a cyclist.

The information above is general and does not apply to every bicycle accident claim. Speak with an attorney about the laws, insurance coverage, and deadlines that may apply to your situation.

FREE Case Evaluation

"*" indicates required fields

16 yrs
of legal experience
$6M+
Recovered for clients
100+
Cases resolved
MO + IL
Licensed to practice
Client Reviews
Erin D
After a very negative experience with our first personal injury lawyer, Tyler Thompson renewed our faith in the legal system and exceeded our expectations as our represention. Tyler was very communicative, compassionate, diligent in moving our case along, and found us the right specialist who finally was able to give us an accurate diagnosis and treatment options. We highly recommend Tyler and the Thompson Law STL Firm! “
Colleen Kelly
After being unsatisfied with my initial representation, I contacted Tyler who was determined, informative and confident in my case from start to finish. Through the process, he offered updates and was able to get the matter resolved to satisfaction. Beyond this, he was personable and a pleasure to be represented by- after my case finally settled, he called me that day and offered to drop the check off to me at my work. I'll be sure to share his contact with anyone who may need representation. Thank you, Tyler!
Bel da Silva
Can't speak highly enough of Tyler! He always kept me up to date on the case and was able to get my settlement higher than what the other party wanted to pay. He was timely and all around a nice guy. He even picked me up on the way to mediation. He always listened to me and I really feel like at every step of the way had my best interest at heart. I wish I could give him 10 stars out of 5!
Jason Malacarne
Tyler Thompson was my attorney during a car accident situation where I was injured. He worked for a different firm at the time I hired him originally, but I liked him so much and felt he had strong character and integrity, I made the decision to stick with him as my attorney when he no longer worked there. Well, I couldn't have made a better decision. Tyler is not just a good attorney who delivers when he says he will, he is also a good person.
Injured in a Bicycle Accident

You don’t have to handle the claim alone. Contact Thompson Law for support.

Talk To Tyler Thompson →

Meet Your Attorney

Choose an Attorney Who Understands the Insurance Claims Process From Both Sides

Meet Tyler Thompson, an experienced St. Louis personal injury attorney with more than 12 years of legal experience. Before focusing on representing injured individuals, Tyler worked in insurance defense, including serving as in-house counsel for a national insurance company.

That experience gives Tyler a firsthand understanding of how insurance companies evaluate personal injury claims. He knows the questions insurers may ask, the factors they consider, and the issues that can affect the value of a claim.

Today, Tyler uses that experience to build strong cases for injured clients and negotiate with insurance companies from a position of knowledge. His goal is to help clients understand their options and pursue the compensation they deserve.

Talk To Tyler Thompson →
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About St. Louis Bicycle Accidents

Seek medical attention first, then report the collision to the police. If possible, collect the driver’s details, photograph the scene, and preserve your bicycle and damaged gear.

Yes. If a driver’s negligence caused your injuries, you may have grounds for a claim. The collision circumstances and available evidence can help establish liability.

Report the hit-and-run to the police and preserve available evidence, including witness details and camera footage. Depending on your insurance policy and the circumstances, uninsured motorist coverage may provide a recovery option.

There is no fixed settlement amount. Your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, future care needs, property damage, and available insurance coverage may affect the compensation your claim supports.

You may be able to seek compensation for bicycle repairs or replacement and other damaged equipment. Keep photographs, repair estimates, and receipts to document your property losses.

The driver’s account does not determine legal responsibility. Police reports, witness statements, photographs, and video footage may help clarify what happened and whether you share responsibility.

You can handle a claim without a lawyer. However, legal guidance may help if your injuries are serious, fault is disputed, or an insurer challenges your losses.

Not always. Some claims resolve through insurance negotiations. If negotiations don’t produce an acceptable agreement, you may need to file a lawsuit.

Yes. Missouri follows a pure comparative fault system, so your damages may be reduced by your percentage of fault rather than automatically barred.

The deadline depends on the applicable law, when the claim arose, and the circumstances. Different rules may apply to certain claims, including those involving government entities. An attorney can help confirm the deadline for your case.

Get Your Free Case Review with a St. Louis Bicycle Accident Lawyer

You Don’t Pay Unless We Win. Speak with our experts today and secure the compensation you deserve.

  • Free Consultation & Case Review
  • No Fees Unless We Win Your Case
  • Millions Recovered for Local Clients

Get Your Free Case Review