Phoenix Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Phoenix is one of the best cities in the country for year-round cycling — sunny skies, flat terrain, and a growing network of bike lanes draw thousands of riders onto the road every day. But those same roads are also among the most dangerous for cyclists. Wide, multi-lane streets with high speed limits and distracted drivers create a deadly combination for people on two wheels.

If you were injured — or a loved one was killed — in a bicycle accident in Phoenix, Leon Law, PLLC is ready to stand up for your rights. Attorney Jose Leon has 14+ years of experience fighting for injury victims across Maricopa County, and he handles every bicycle accident case on a contingency fee basis: you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Call (480) 269-1083 for a free consultation, or complete our free case review form.

The Danger Facing Cyclists in Arizona

Despite improvements to cycling infrastructure, Arizona remains one of the most dangerous states for bicyclists. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) 2024 Crash Facts:

• 3.19% of all bicycle-involved crashes in Arizona were fatal in 2024
• Maricopa County — home to Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, and surrounding cities — accounted for 72.74% of all crashes statewide, including a disproportionate share of cyclist collisions
• Statewide, Arizona recorded 1,228 total traffic fatalities and 54,426 injuries in 2024, with cyclists among the most vulnerable road users

Like pedestrians, cyclists have virtually no protection in a collision with a motor vehicle. Even at moderate speeds, a crash between a car and a bicycle can cause catastrophic, life-changing injuries.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Phoenix

Understanding what causes bike crashes helps establish liability and build a strong claim. The most common causes of bicycle accidents in the Phoenix area include:

• Dooring — A driver or passenger opens a car door directly into the path of an oncoming cyclist. Dooring accidents happen frequently in urban areas with street parking.
• Right hook — A vehicle passes a cyclist and then turns right, cutting directly across the cyclist’s path.
• Left cross — An oncoming vehicle turns left in front of a cyclist traveling straight through an intersection.
• Failure to share the road — Drivers who pass too closely, crowd bike lanes, or refuse to give cyclists adequate space.
• Distracted driving — Texting, phone calls, or in-car distractions that cause a driver to overlook a cyclist entirely.
• DUI / impaired driving — Intoxicated drivers pose an extreme threat. Alcohol-related crashes accounted for 27.93% of all fatal crashes in Arizona in 2024.
• Road hazards — Potholes, debris, uneven pavement, drainage grates, and poorly maintained bike lanes can cause a cyclist to lose control or swerve into traffic.
• Failure to yield — Drivers entering intersections, driveways, or parking lots without checking for cyclists.

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries

The injuries cyclists sustain are often severe because of the minimal protection a bicycle offers:

• Road rash — Abrasion injuries from sliding across pavement can range from superficial to deep, infection-prone wounds requiring skin grafts.
• Broken bones and fractures — Collarbones, wrists, arms, legs, hips, and ribs are commonly fractured in bike crashes.
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) — Even with a helmet, a cyclist’s head can strike the vehicle, the ground, or another object with enough force to cause a concussion or severe brain injury.
• Spinal cord injuries — The impact of a collision can damage vertebrae and the spinal cord, potentially causing partial or complete paralysis.
• Internal injuries — Blunt-force trauma to the chest or abdomen can cause internal bleeding or organ damage requiring emergency surgery.
• Wrongful death — When a bicycle accident proves fatal, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim.

Arizona Bicycle Laws: Know Your Rights

Arizona law recognizes bicyclists as legitimate road users with the same rights — and the same responsibilities — as motor vehicle drivers:

If a driver violated any of these laws and injured you, that violation is strong evidence of negligence.

E-Bike and E-Scooter Accidents: A Growing Category

Electric bicycles (e-bikes) and electric scooters from companies like Bird and Lime have become a common sight on Phoenix streets. While they provide convenient transportation, they also present unique legal and safety challenges:

• E-bikes can travel at higher speeds than traditional bicycles, increasing crash severity.
• Electric scooter riders often share sidewalks and roads without clear guidance on where they belong.
• Rental scooter companies may bear liability for defective equipment or failure to warn riders of hazards.
• Arizona law is still evolving to address classification and regulation of e-bikes and e-scooters.

If you were injured in an e-bike or e-scooter crash — whether you were the rider or were struck by one — Leon Law can evaluate your case. Check our blog for additional insights into scooter accident claims.

Liability and Comparative Negligence in Bicycle Accident Cases

Arizona’s pure comparative negligence system (A.R.S. § 12-2505) means you can recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident. For example, if you were riding without a light at night and a distracted driver struck you, both parties share fault — but you are not barred from recovering. Your award is simply reduced by your percentage of fault.

Potential liable parties in a bicycle accident include:

• The driver who struck you (negligence, DUI, distraction)
• A government entity responsible for dangerous road conditions, missing bike lanes, or broken signals (subject to a 180-day notice of claim under A.R.S. § 12-821.01)
• A vehicle or bicycle manufacturer if a defective product contributed to the crash
• An employer if the driver was acting in the course of employment
• A scooter or e-bike rental company for equipment defects or inadequate safety warnings

Types of Compensation for Injured Cyclists

If you were injured in a bicycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to:

• Medical expenses — Emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing care
• Lost wages and earning capacity — Income lost during recovery and diminished future earning potential
• Pain and suffering — Physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident
• Property damage — Replacement or repair of your bicycle and gear
• Disability and disfigurement — Compensation for permanent scarring, loss of mobility, or other lasting physical changes
• Loss of enjoyment of life — When injuries prevent you from cycling or engaging in activities you once enjoyed
• Wrongful death damages — If a cyclist was killed, surviving family members may claim funeral costs, loss of companionship, and financial support under Arizona wrongful death law

Arizona’s Statute of Limitations

Under A.R.S. § 12-542, you have two years from the date of your bicycle accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the deadline is two years from the date of death. Claims against government entities require a notice of claim within 180 days (A.R.S. § 12-821.01).

Do not delay. Evidence fades, witnesses move, and critical deadlines can pass quickly. Contact Leon Law as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accidents in Phoenix

Can I still file a claim if I was not wearing a helmet?

Yes. Arizona does not have a mandatory helmet law for adult cyclists. While the other side may argue that not wearing a helmet contributed to your injuries, this does not bar your claim. Under comparative negligence, your compensation might be reduced, but you can still recover.

What should I do immediately after a bicycle accident?

Call 911, get medical attention, document the scene with photos, collect the driver’s information and witness details, and contact a bicycle accident lawyer before speaking with any insurance company. Avoid giving recorded statements.

Who pays for my medical bills after a bike accident?

The at-fault driver’s liability insurance typically covers your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. If the driver was uninsured or underinsured, your own UM/UIM coverage may apply. Leon Law can review your insurance options during a free case review.

What if the driver says the accident was my fault?

Drivers and their insurance companies frequently blame the cyclist. Arizona’s pure comparative negligence system still allows you to recover if you were partially at fault. An experienced personal injury attorney can investigate the crash, gather evidence, and counter false claims.

Are e-bike and e-scooter accidents handled the same way?

Many of the same legal principles apply, but e-bike and e-scooter cases can involve additional parties — such as the rental company — and evolving regulations. Leon Law stays up to date on Arizona’s e-bike and scooter laws and has the experience to handle these emerging claims.

How much does it cost to hire a bicycle accident lawyer?

Leon Law handles all bicycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis. You pay no upfront fees, no retainers, and no costs out of pocket. We only get paid if we recover compensation for you. Call (480) 269-1083 or visit our free case review page to get started.