Multiple Defendants in Bicycle Accident Cases

Some bicycle accidents involve multiple at-fault parties. Understanding joint liability helps maximize your recovery when several defendants share blame.

Common Multiple-Defendant Scenarios

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Multiple Vehicles Two cars collide, one hits cyclist.

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Driver + Government Driver was negligent, but road defect contributed.

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Driver + Employer Employee driver acting within employment.

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Driver + Product Manufacturer Vehicle defect and driver negligence combined.

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Driver + Property Owner Visibility obstruction from private property.

Joint and Several Liability

In many states, multiple defendants can be held jointly and severally liable:

• Each is responsible for full damages

• You collect from whoever can pay

• Defendants sort out shares among themselves

Some states have modified this rule, making each defendant responsible only for their share.

Strategic Considerations

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Naming All Defendants

• Identifies all insurance policies

• Prevents blame-shifting

• Maximizes potential recovery

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Settlement Issues

• One defendant may settle early

• Settlement may affect claims against others

• Set-offs and credits apply

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Apportioning Fault Insurance companies and juries assign percentages:

• Driver A: 60%

• Driver B: 30%

• Cyclist: 10%

Your recovery is reduced by your percentage.

Complexity = Need for Attorney

Multiple defendant cases are complex. An experienced attorney can:

• Identify all liable parties

• Navigate joint liability rules

• Maximize recovery from multiple sources