4 FAQs for Cyclists Injured in Out-of-State Bicycle Accidents
Bicycling for vacation — whether riding the TransAmerica Trail, touring Portland to Portland, or renting a hotel bike to explore a new city — is loved by many cyclists. The thrill of the open road, the wind in your hair, and the freedom of two wheels are hard to beat.
But what happens when your ride takes a wrong turn and you’re injured outside your home state? As a Lafayette-based bicycle accident attorney, I hear these four questions often:
1. What should I do if I’m injured in a bicycle accident out of state?
Call emergency services right away. Gather as much information as you can, including photos, license plate numbers, location, names, and witness statements. Once you return home, reach out to a personal injury bicycle attorney. They can help you recover compensation for medical bills, property damage, and unexpected travel expenses.
2. Do I need to hire an attorney in the state where the crash occurred?
Yes. If you’re injured in another state, hire a lawyer practicing where the accident happened. They know the laws and insurance rules in that state.
For example, if you live in Arizona but are injured while riding in Walnut Creek, California, you can call me for a free consultation. On the other hand, if you live in California but crash in Arizona, you’ll want an Arizona-based attorney to handle your claim.
3. Will my insurance cover a bike accident that happens while traveling?
Yes, in most cases. The at-fault driver’s car insurance usually covers damages. If another cyclist is involved, their homeowners insurance may apply.
If the driver lacks coverage, you may still have options. Your own policy or uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage could step in to cover the gap.
For more details, see my blogs on Understanding Bicycle Injury Insurance Claims and UIM Coverage Is a Must-Have for Cyclists. You can also explore the League of American Bicyclists for tips on safe riding in new states.
4. Will I have to travel back to the state where the accident happened?
Usually, no. Most claims resolve over phone, email, or video calls. Meeting in person is nice but not required.
In rare cases, such as when both parties live in different states and the case moves to federal court, travel could be necessary.
Paceline
Cyclists ride in a paceline to cut wind drag by up to 50%. Hiring the right lawyer should work the same way — reducing friction and helping you move forward.
If you’ve been injured in a bike accident, whether in California or out of state, I can make the legal process smoother. Let’s go further together. Contact me today for a free consultation.