The Top 3 Bicycle Accident Scenarios and How to Avoid Them

Cycling is on the rise in Canada, and the city of Hamilton is no exception. If you want to navigate the roads and bike lanes safely, it’s time to look at the risks and most common types of bike accidents that happen every day. Learn more from our personal injury team. 

In Ontario, a bicycle is legally considered a vehicle when you’re operating it on any public roads. Cyclists have the same rights as drivers – but also the same responsibilities. 

It’s quite literally and figuratively a two-way street, with both cyclists and motorists making safe choices to prevent collisions. The ultimate responsibility lies with everyone sharing the road, which is why it’s so important for cyclists to understand the situations that cause the biggest risks for accidents.  

What is the leading cause of bicycle accidents?

The single leading cause of bicycle accidents isn’t a single mechanical failure, a pothole, or even darkness – it’s driver and cyclist error.

In Hamilton, we’re facing some other unique challenges, from the escarpment to busy downtown streets and sprawling suburban roads, near-constant construction, confusing road rules, and sometimes impatient drivers.

At Morris Law Group, we’ve represented countless cyclists injured in accidents, and we know exactly how misunderstandings and missed signs can lead to serious damage, pain, and tragedy. Learn more about the real-world scenarios that most often lead to accidents so you can keep your eyes peeled and stop them before they happen.

1. The Hamilton “Hug”

What is the most common type of bicycle crash?

This isn’t the kind of hug you want to receive, but most bike riders have encountered at least a few. 

Think of the “hug” as that terrifying moment when a driver, often in a larger vehicle like an SUV, Jeep, or truck, tries to squeeze past you on a narrow street when there isn’t enough room to comfortably pass. It’s not just rude, it’s a serious danger to you – and a violation of Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, which requires drivers to maintain a safe distance when passing cyclists. Ideally, that means at least one metre of distance. 

How to Defend Yourself

Own your own space as much as possible. Most of us are naturally inclined to try to take up as little space as possible, especially when we’re sharing the road. But, if you hug the curb, it gives drivers more space to try to squeeze when they should really be waiting for a safe space to pass. 

Don’t worry about being polite – especially when it comes at the expense of your safety. Ride in the centre of the lane when necessary to prevent unsafe passing. If a driver honks, that’s their problem, not yours. 

The Legal Angle

If you’re injured in a “Hamilton Hug,” the driver is almost certainly legally liable. Their impatience doesn’t override your right to safety, and they don’t have a right to pass if there isn’t enough safe space to do so. Document everything with photos and witnesses, then immediately report the accident to the police.

2. The “Dooring” Dilemma

Dooring is the classic accident that happens when parked drivers open their doors at the same time you’re passing their vehicle. In Hamilton, we have loads of narrow streets, parking spots beside bike lanes, and a dense urban core that isn’t built for many vehicles. Plenty of downtown homes don’t have any driveways or parking spaces at all, so street parking is often stuffed to the brim. 

Unfortunately, many older streets don’t have enough space for both parked cars and a safe cycling zone, increasing the risk of dooring. 

How to Defend Yourself

Create a three-foot buffer zone that extends all the way out from parked cars. Always stay outside that zone, even if it means taking the lane. Don’t assume no one is in a vehicle – ever. Scan parked cars for occupants, looking for brake lights, movement, and anything that suggests someone might be about to exit.

The Legal Angle

Under Ontario’s Occupiers’ Liability Act, property owners, including the City, in the case of public streets, have a duty to keep their properties and premises reasonably safe for any visitors – and that also means cyclists. If a street’s poor design contributes to dooring incidents, you could have grounds for a claim against the municipality in addition to the driver.

3. The Intersection Gamble

Intersections are danger zones for cyclists everywhere, but Hamilton’s mix of one-way streets, confusing lane markings, and high-speed arterial roads adds extra complexity. Some cyclists make a big mistake – assuming drivers will see you and yield the right-of-way.

The Proactive Defence

Be predictable when you’re on the road by using clear hand signals, maintaining a consistent cycling speed, and choosing a lane position that clearly communicates your intentions. Anticipate that drivers won’t see you and act defensively rather than assuming they do. In a perfect world, they would, but that’s not the case in reality.  Make eye contact whenever possible, and be prepared to brake or change course as you need to defensively.

What is the best way to avoid accidents with people on bikes?

On the driver’s side of things, you must actively look for cyclists, especially at intersections, treating them as you would any other vehicle with a right to be on the road. You need to yield appropriately, avoid distractions, and always assume that a cyclist is around. Even if you don’t see them immediately.

The Legal Angle

Right-of-way road rules are very important, but they unfortunately can’t magically shield you from inattentive drivers. Even if you have the right-of-way, you still have a duty to avoid a collision if it’s possible to do so. However, if a driver violates your right-of-way and causes an accident, they are most likely to be held legally liable.

Beyond the Basics: Your Legal Rights and Accident Resources

If you’re involved in a bicycle accident in Hamilton, remember:

• You have rights. Ask any bicycle injury attorney – Ontario law protects cyclists since they’re more vulnerable than drivers. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other financial damages, even if you were partially at fault under the principle of contributory negligence.
  

• Don’t admit fault. Even a seemingly innocent comment like “I didn’t see you” can be used against you later.
  

• Document everything. Photos, witness information, police reports, and medical records are crucial evidence. Take them and keep them somewhere safe.
  

• Seek legal advice. A personal injury lawyer experienced in bicycle accident claims, like our team at Morris Law Group, can help you navigate the complex legal process and protect your interests.

The Morris Law Group—Bike Accident Attorneys Hamilton

Our expert legal team at The Morris Law Group has successfully advocated for clients for 60+ years. We have the expertise and dedication to advocate for your best interests and help secure the justice you deserve after an unfortunate biking accident. 

Request a free consultation or call us at 905-526-8080 to learn more and speak with a bicycle accident attorney.