What Insurance Covers Bicycle Accidents in Bloomington, IL?

Cycling through Bloomington offers a great way to stay active, avoid traffic, and enjoy the scenery. But when a bicycle accident occurs—whether it’s a collision with a vehicle, a fall due to poor road conditions, or a hit-and-run—the aftermath can be overwhelming, So, what insurance covers bicycle accidents in Bloomington, IL?

At Onward Injury Law, we understand how confusing insurance policies can be, especially when you’re dealing with the stress of an injury. This guide breaks down the types of coverage that may apply, how to file a claim, and what your legal rights are as a cyclist in Illinois.

Understanding Bicycle Accident Coverage

Many people assume that because bicycles don’t require insurance like cars do, there’s no coverage available in the event of a crash. That’s not true. While there’s no insurance policy specifically for bikes, what insurance covers bicycle accidents often depends on who was at fault and what types of policies are in place.

In Bloomington, IL, coverage may come from:

• Auto insurance (yours or the driver’s)
  
• Homeowners or renters insurance
  
• Health insurance
  
• Umbrella liability policies
  

Knowing where to look can make the difference between being stuck with unexpected costs and getting the compensation you deserve.

1. Auto Insurance: When a Car Hits a Cyclist

If you were struck by a motor vehicle while riding your bike, the at-fault driver’s auto insurance is usually the first source of compensation. In Illinois, drivers are required to carry minimum liability coverage, which typically includes:

• $25,000 for injury or death of one person
  
• $50,000 is the minimum required coverage for bodily injury or death involving two or more individuals in a single accident.

• $20,000 for property damage
  

This coverage can help pay for your medical expenses, lost wages, and bicycle repairs or replacement.

However, if the driver is uninsured or flees the scene, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (if you carry it) may step in. This is one of the most critical answers to what insurance covers bicycle accidents, especially in hit-and-run cases.

2. Health Insurance: Immediate Medical Needs

Your health insurance is another key piece of the puzzle. Even if another party is responsible for the accident, your health insurance can cover emergency room visits, surgeries, follow-up appointments, and rehabilitation.

It’s important to note, however, that your health insurer may seek reimbursement (called subrogation) if you later receive a settlement from the at-fault driver’s insurer. Still, using your health insurance can provide timely care while you sort out liability and legal claims.

3. Homeowners or Renters Insurance: When You Cause Damage

If you accidentally injure a pedestrian or damage someone’s property while riding your bike, your homeowners or renters insurance may provide liability coverage. This is a less common scenario but still worth knowing.

These policies can also help if your bicycle is stolen or damaged in a non-collision event, such as a fire or vandalism—though coverage limits and deductibles vary.

So, when considering what insurance covers bicycle accidents, it’s helpful to check the fine print in your home or rental policy.

4. MedPay or Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

Some auto insurance policies include Medical Payments (MedPay) or Personal Injury Protection (PIP). These can apply even if you’re injured as a cyclist. MedPay helps cover medical costs regardless of who was at fault, while PIP may include wage loss benefits and more.

Not all Illinois drivers carry these optional coverages, but if you do, they can be an additional layer of support after a bicycle accident.

5. Umbrella Insurance

If the costs of your injury exceed the limits of basic liability coverage, an umbrella policy (if available) may help cover the difference. This applies in both directions—whether you’re filing a claim or someone is claiming against you.

It’s not a common source, but when evaluating what insurance covers bicycle accidents, high-net-worth individuals or those with layered policies may benefit from this extra protection.

Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident

To protect your health and your legal claim, follow these important steps after any bicycle accident in Bloomington:

1. Call 911 – Get medical help and ensure police file an official report.
   
2. Exchange Information – Get names, phone numbers, insurance, and license plate details if another person is involved.
   
3. Document the Scene – Take photos of your bike, the vehicle (if involved), injuries, and road conditions.
   
4. Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel okay, some injuries (like concussions or internal trauma) aren’t immediately obvious.
   
5. Notify Insurance Companies – Contact your auto or health insurer to report the incident and start the claims process.
   
6. Consult an Attorney – At Onward Injury Law, we’ll help you understand your coverage, file claims correctly, and pursue compensation if you’re not treated fairly.
   

What if the Driver Claims You Were at Fault?

Illinois uses a modified comparative fault rule, meaning your compensation can be reduced if you’re found partially at fault for the accident. If you’re more than 50% responsible, you may be barred from recovery altogether.

Insurance companies sometimes try to shift blame to avoid paying full claims. That’s why having legal representation from a firm like Onward Injury Law can protect your rights and ensure the facts are properly reviewed.

Final Thoughts: Know Your Coverage Before You Ride

Bicycling in Bloomington offers many benefits, but accidents can have serious consequences. Knowing what insurance covers bicycle accidents can help you make informed decisions about your coverage and how to respond if something goes wrong.

From car insurance to health and homeowners policies, multiple layers of protection may apply—you just need to know where to look. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident or are unsure of your insurance rights, Onward Injury Law is here to help you navigate the legal and financial aftermath.