Reader’s Question:
In my neighborhood in PA there are a lot of cyclists and I want to know what should I do if one of this cyclist hits my car and cause big damage, are they liable?
Jason
Erie, PA
If the bicycle hit you because the cyclist was not attentive and adhering to the rules of the road, then normally he or she could be held at fault and liable for the damages your car have sustained in an accident in Pennsylvania. Cyclists are responsible for following roadway laws and thus if the cyclist hits your car from making an illegal turn, rear-ended you, riding too close to your car, etc then he or she would normally be held responsible.
If you were hit by a bicyclist then you should get a police report just as if it was another automobile or motor vehicle that had hit your car. You can make a claim with your collision coverage since it is unlikely that the cyclist has insurance to cover the damages to your car or deal with the cyclist for him or her to cover the costs of the repairs personally out of pocket.
If you do not have collision coverage on your car which to make a claim for your car’s damages and have problems with the at-fault cyclist paying for the costs of your repairs, then you may need to obtain legal counsel on what your state’s allow you to do legally. You could even take the bicyclist to court and seek a judgment against him or her for the expenses you incurred due to him or her hitting your car.
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