Right Hook Bicycle Accidents: Causes, Liability & Prevention

A right hook accident occurs when a vehicle passes a cyclist and then turns right, cutting across the cyclist's path. These are among the most dangerous and deadly types of bicycle accidents.

Why Right Hooks Are So Dangerous

- Cyclists have no escape route

• High-speed impact is common

• Large vehicles have significant blind spots

• Often occurs at intersections where cyclists have the right of way

Common Scenarios

Scenario 1: Pass and Turn A vehicle passes a cyclist, then immediately turns right at a driveway or intersection, not realizing the cyclist is still alongside.

Scenario 2: Simultaneous Approach Both the vehicle and cyclist approach an intersection. The driver turns right without yielding to the cyclist going straight.

Scenario 3: Commercial Vehicle Blind Spot Trucks and buses have large blind spots on the right side. Drivers simply don't see the cyclist.

Liability in Right Hook Accidents

Drivers who turn right across a cyclist's path typically bear full liability because:

• The cyclist had the right of way going straight

• Drivers must yield to through traffic before turning

• Passing then immediately turning is negligent

Prevention Tips

For Cyclists:

• Make eye contact with drivers at intersections

• Don't pass trucks or buses on the right

• Take the lane at intersections when safe

• Watch for turn signals (but don't rely on them)

• Assume you're not seen

For Drivers:

• Always check mirrors and blind spots before turning

• Don't pass cyclists near intersections

• When in doubt, let the cyclist go first