Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or just enjoying the outdoors, bicycle travel in Oregon can be an amazing experience. But sharing the road with cars, trucks, and even other cyclists comes with collision risks. Even the safest riders can find themselves in dangerous situations if they’re not aware of common accident scenarios.
At Harris Velázquez Gibbens, PC, we’ve seen firsthand how devastating bicycle accidents can be. While Oregon has strong laws protecting cyclists and motor vehicle drivers have a duty of care to watch out for you, staying alert and knowing how to avoid crashes can help keep you safe.
Below, we’ll cover seven of the most common types of bicycle accident scenarios in Oregon and practical strategies to avoid them. We’ll also highlight how, in the event of an accident, an experienced lawyer can help you with a personal injury lawsuit.
1. Right Hook Accidents
A right hook accident happens when a motorist turns right into the path of a cyclist who is traveling in a straight path. It usually happens because the driver either fails to see the cyclist or underestimates their speed. Cyclists riding in bike lanes are particularly vulnerable to this type of accident because drivers may not be checking their right-side blind spot before turning.
To avoid right hook accidents, always stay alert when approaching traffic lights and be cautious when riding alongside vehicles that may turn right. Watch for turn signals and the movement of front wheels, as not all motor vehicle drivers use blinkers. If a vehicle passes you and then slows down for a right turn, reduce your speed and be prepared to stop. Position yourself where you are clearly visible to the driver and, if necessary, move slightly left in the lane to make it clear you are continuing straight.
2. Doorings
Dooring accidents happen when a driver or passenger in a parked car suddenly opens their door into the path of an oncoming cyclist. The cyclist often has no time to react, leading to a direct collision or a dangerous swerve into traffic. In cities with high parking density, doorings are a major risk.
One of the best ways to prevent a dooring accident is to ride at least three feet away from parked cars whenever possible. This keeps you out of the “door zone” and gives you enough space to react if a door suddenly opens. Scan for occupied vehicles as you approach and look for brake lights, movement inside the car, or signs that someone is about to exit. If you must ride closer to parked motor vehicles, reduce to a reasonable speed and be ready to brake.
3. Intersection Collisions (Left Cross Accidents)
A left cross accident occurs when a motorist turning left at an intersection collides with a cyclist traveling straight in the opposite direction. Many of these crashes happen because the driver misjudges the cyclist’s speed or simply doesn’t see them. Left cross accidents are especially dangerous because they often involve high-impact crashes, leading to severe injuries and property damage.
To reduce the risk of a left cross accident, always approach intersections with caution and try to make eye contact with drivers who are waiting to turn left. If you’re unsure whether a driver sees you, slow down and be prepared to stop rather than assuming they will yield. Wearing bright or reflective gear, especially at night or in low-light conditions, increases your visibility and makes it easier for drivers to recognize you.
4. Overtaking Collisions
An overtaking collision occurs when a driver misjudges the space needed to safely pass a cyclist. They then either clip them or force them off the road, causing severe injuries. Some drivers are unaware of Oregon’s safe passing laws, which require motorists to give at least three feet of clearance when passing a cyclist to reduce the risk of accidents.
To avoid overtaking collisions, ride predictably and maintain a straight, steady line so that drivers can judge their passing distance accurately. If a road is too narrow for vehicles to pass safely, take the lane to discourage unsafe passing. Use a rearview mirror or glance behind you frequently to stay aware of approaching vehicles. If traffic is heavy and you sense a motor vehicles passing too closely, consider pulling over briefly to let faster traffic go by.
5. Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions usually happen when a driver isn’t paying attention, is following too closely, or misjudges the cyclist’s speed. These crashes are particularly dangerous at night or in poor weather conditions, where visibility is lower. A single moment of inattention can cause devastating injuries and property damage.
Using bright rear lights, even during the day, is one of the best ways to prevent rear-end collisions, as a flashing red light mounted on your seat post makes you far more visible to drivers. When riding on busy roads, stick to designated bike lanes whenever possible, but if you must ride in traffic, position yourself where drivers can clearly see you rather than hugging the curb. Always assume that some drivers may be distracted, so staying aware of vehicles behind you is crucial.
6. Sidewalk Riding Accidents
While riding on the sidewalk may feel safer than sharing the road with cars, it actually increases the risk of collisions at driveways, crosswalks, and parking lot exits. Drivers pulling out of these areas often don’t expect fast-moving bicycle riders on the sidewalk, which can lead to sudden crashes.
If possible, use bike lanes or designated bike paths instead of the sidewalk. When riding on the sidewalk is necessary, slow down, especially when approaching driveways, intersections, and traffic control devices. Make yourself visible by wearing bright clothing and use a bell or verbal cue to alert pedestrians when passing. When crossing busy streets from a sidewalk, stop and look both ways before entering the intersection, just as a pedestrian would.
7. Bicyclist-on-Bicyclist Accidents
Not all bike accidents involve motor vehicles: collisions between cyclists can also happen, particularly in crowded bike lanes or on popular trails. These crashes often occur when one rider suddenly slows, swerves, or turns without warning, leading to a pileup. Differences in speed, lack of communication, and distracted riding contribute to these incidents.
To avoid bicycle-on-bicycle collisions on busy streets, always be aware of the riders around you and communicate clearly. Use hand signals when turning or changing traffic lanes and avoid weaving or making unpredictable movements. If you’re riding slower, stay to the right so faster cyclists can pass safely. Before passing another rider, check over your shoulder for traffic and announce your move with a simple “On your left!”
Additional Tips for Safe Cycling in Oregon
Oregon is a bike-friendly state with many great cycling routes, but staying safe requires constant awareness and smart riding habits. For example:
- Always wear a helmet, even though it’s not legally required for adults.
- Follow Oregon bicycling laws, obey traffic signals and traffic signs, and stay visible with lights and reflective gear, especially at night. This can help reduce the risk of accidents.
- Ride in the direction of traffic and keep an eye out for other road users.
- Watch out for road hazards like potholes and debris.
- Stay aware of traffic speed limits (and adjust your own speed limit accordingly).
- Choose safer routes whenever possible. This may mean using bike lanes and multi-use paths to minimize interactions with cars.
If you do find yourself in a cycling accident because someone else ignored Oregon traffic laws, knowing what to do next is critical.
- Call 911 to alert law enforcement. A police report is an important piece of evidence when you file for potential compensation.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the at-fault party. If they fled the scene, surveillance footage may be used to locate them.
- Document the accident scene by taking photos and video. Be sure to note traffic signals, yield signs, and road conditions.
- Get witness information. If you need to seek compensatory damages, their statements can help if you file a personal injury claim for bicyclist injuries.
- Seek medical attention right away. Bicycle-related injuries can be catastrophic even when the cyclist wears a helmet, so even if you think you’re unhurt, it’s better to be checked out just in case. You’ll also want a medical record of your injuries if you need to sue.
It’s also important to get legal representation from an experienced bicycle accident attorney who can help you understand your rights and pursue fair compensation in a personal injury claim. You may be entitled to financial damages like medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress, so securing legal representation should be a priority.
Injured? Our Oregon Bicycle Accident Lawyers Are Here to Help
At Harris Velázquez Gibbens, PC, our personal injury attorneys have been protecting the rights of injured cyclists in Oregon since 1997. If you’ve been in a bicycle crash, don’t let insurance companies deny your claim or offer you a lowball settlement for catastrophic injuries: contact us to schedule an initial consultation about your legal options. In the meantime, stay safe, ride smart, and let us help if you ever need legal support.
