A 50-year-old Bellingham man was seriously injured in a multi vehicle crash involving a bicycle on northbound Interstate 5 near milepost 247, just north of the Samish Way exit, around 11:07 a.m. on April 21, 2026. According to the Washington State Patrol, the bicyclist was riding legally on the right shoulder when a chain-reaction collision pushed a vehicle into him, forcing him into a guardrail. He was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. His condition has not been released.
Investigators say the bicycle crash was triggered by a vehicle merging into another lane, which caused a collision that sent one of the cars into the guardrail and then into the bicyclist. The two drivers involved were not injured. The incident blocked northbound lanes for several hours and caused significant traffic delays as emergency crews responded. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the crash and have not determined whether drugs or alcohol were a factor. Charges may be filed against one of the drivers.
As this case shows, even a momentary driving error can have life-changing consequences for cyclists and navigating the aftermath can be overwhelming. If you or a loved one is injured in a bicycle crash involving a vehicle, you don’t have to navigate the process alone. Schedule a free consultation with a local bike accident lawyer who can discuss your legal rights and help you recover a full and fair settlement.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident Involving a Car
If you or someone you love has been injured in a bicycle crash involving a vehicle, the steps you take next can make a major difference in your recovery and your ability to recover a fair settlement. First, report the crash to law enforcement and seek medical care right away, even if injuries are not immediately clear. Some serious conditions take time to appear.
If possible, document the scene by taking photos, gathering witness information, and preserving your damaged bicycle and gear. Keep records of all medical treatment, bills, and related expenses. These details can play a key role in any future claim.
It is also important to notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Stick to the facts while avoiding any implication of fault. Be extremely cautious when you receive a call from the at-fault driver’s insurer. Never admit fault and avoid giving recorded statements or accepting a settlement before understanding the full extent of your injuries and your legal rights.
How a Bicycle Accident Attorney Can Help
Bicycle accident cases can be complex, especially when multiple vehicles are involved or when liability is disputed. An experienced bicycle accident attorney can investigate the crash, gather evidence, and advocate for fair compensation on your behalf. This may include coverage for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.
Bicycle Accidents Involving a Car
If you or a loved one was injured by a car while cycling, it is vital to report the accident to the police and to seek prompt medical treatment. Document and preserve the evidence from the accident scene if you can and keep receipts and transcripts from all resulting medical care. You should also notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible but do not provide any information to the at-fault insurance adjuster or accept a settlement without first speaking with a bike accident attorney.
It is not uncommon to receive a bike accident settlement that is five to ten times larger with the help of a personal injury lawyer. Call the caring, tireless, and experienced injury attorneys at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! Since 1979, our personal injury law firm, Tario & Associates, P.S., has been dedicated to fighting for the rights of people injured throughout Washington State, with local offices in Bellingham and Mount Vernon to serve residents of Whatcom, Skagit, Island, and Snohomish counties. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
