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Right-hook collisions are a common type of bicycle accident that can cause serious injuries to cyclists. These crashes typically happen when a driver turns right and strikes a bicyclist traveling straight ahead. Understanding Washington’s traffic laws, what to do after a crash, and how fault and damages are determined can help injured cyclists understand their legal options. They are one of the most common ways cyclists are struck in Seattle and other Washington cities, and the facts of the turn often decide who is liable.
A right-hook collision occurs when a motor vehicle turns right and cuts off or strikes a bicyclist traveling in the same direction. These crashes commonly occur at intersections, where drivers and cyclists may travel alongside one another before the driver begins a right turn. E-bikes have added to the risk, because their higher speeds can carry a rider into a turning driver’s path faster than the driver expects.
They usually occur when a driver fails to check their blind spot, overlooks a cyclist in a bike lane, or turns across a cyclist’s path without yielding the right-of-way.
The turning driver can be at fault when they fail to yield the right-of-way to a bicyclist traveling straight on their right. Drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles with reasonable care and watch for cyclists and other vulnerable road users before turning.
However, fault is not automatically assigned solely because a vehicle turned right. Circumstances to consider when determining fault include where the cyclist was traveling, the applicable traffic signals and lane markings, and the actions of each person immediately before the collision.
Proving fault in a right-hook case usually comes down to the evidence: the police report, statements from the cyclist and any witnesses, nearby traffic or business security-camera footage, and the final resting positions of the vehicle and bicycle. A driver who turned across a marked bike lane or failed to signal is strong evidence of a failure to yield.
Washington also follows a pure comparative negligence system under RCW 4.22.005. This means an injured cyclist may still recover compensation even if they are found partially responsible for the accident.
Washington law gives bicyclists many of the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. Under RCW 46.61.755, bicyclists are lawful road users and must obey applicable traffic signs and signals.
When making a right turn, motorists must yield to bicyclists before crossing into a designated bike lane or turning across a shoulder. Drivers should also check their right-side mirrors and blind spots for approaching cyclists before beginning a turn.
Washington drivers must also overtake and pass cyclists safely under RCW 46.61.110, and cyclists may take a safe lane position under RCW 46.61.770. A motorist should not turn across a bike lane until it is clear of cyclists.
Bicyclists also have responsibilities. They must follow applicable lane markings and cannot simply continue straight in a lane marked exclusively for right turns unless they are properly positioned or are turning. Under RCW 46.61.758, bicyclists should also use the appropriate hand signals when turning.
If you have been involved in a right-hook collision, take steps to protect your health and preserve evidence as soon as possible.
In Washington, you generally have three years from the date of a bicycle accident to file a formal personal injury lawsuit under RCW 4.16.080.
Were you hit by a turning driver? Davis Law Group reviews right-hook bicycle cases at no cost. Call (206) 727-4000 to talk with our team.
Right-hook collisions can cause serious injuries, including head injuries, broken bones, internal injuries, and joint or ligament damage.
For a more detailed look, see our guide to Common Types of Injuries in Bicycle Accident Cases.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be able to recover both economic and non-economic damages after a right-hook collision. These may include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
Compensation can come from more than one source. The at-fault driver’s liability insurance is the primary source, but an injured cyclist can often also use the personal injury protection (PIP) coverage on their own auto policy to pay medical bills regardless of fault, plus underinsured or uninsured motorist (UIM/UM) coverage when the driver has no insurance or too little. Damage to your bicycle, including an e-bike, is recoverable as property damage.
For a more detailed explanation of the types of damages available in bicycle accident cases, see our guide to Types of Damages Available in Personal Injury Cases.
The turning driver is often at fault for failing to yield to a cyclist going straight, because drivers must watch for and yield to cyclists before turning across their path. Fault is not automatic, though. It depends on where the cyclist was riding, the traffic signals and lane markings, and what each person did just before the crash.
Yes. Washington follows pure comparative negligence under RCW 4.22.005, so an injured cyclist can recover even when partly responsible. Your compensation is reduced by your share of fault, but it is not barred.
Often, yes. The personal injury protection (PIP) coverage on your auto policy can pay medical bills regardless of fault, and underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage can apply if the driver has no insurance or too little. These can be used alongside a claim against the at-fault driver.
You generally have three years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit under RCW 4.16.080, though exceptions can apply. It is best to speak with a lawyer well before that deadline.
Call 911 and get medical attention, report the collision to police, exchange information with the driver, document the scene with photos, and consult a bicycle accident lawyer about your options.
After a right-hook bicycle accident, speaking with an attorney can help you understand your legal options, preserve important evidence, and pursue available compensation through the appropriate insurance or legal claims. Davis Law Group has represented injured cyclists and other crash victims across Washington for years, and the firm is prepared to take a case to trial when an insurer will not offer a fair settlement.
If you or someone you love was injured in a right-hook collision, the Personal Injury Lawyers at Davis Law Group are here to help you seek accountability and compensation for your injuries. Call (206) 727-4000 to schedule a free consultation.
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