Canton, IN (September 22, 2025) – A serious crash involving a bicyclist and an off-duty police officer left one man hospitalized Sunday afternoon in Washington County. The collision occurred around 4:00 p.m. at the intersection of Old State Road 56 and North Canton Rd, just outside the town of Canton.
According to Indiana State Police, the off-duty Salem Police Department officer was driving a marked cruiser westbound on Old State Rd 56 and began turning left onto North Canton Rd. During the turn, the officer reportedly failed to see a bicyclist traveling eastbound on the same road, resulting in a direct collision.
The impact caused significant injuries to the bicyclist, who was airlifted to UofL Hospital in Louisville for advanced medical treatment. He remains in stable condition, according to police.
State troopers from ISP are leading the investigation at the request of the Salem Police Department. Early findings indicate that neither alcohol nor drugs were contributing factors in the crash.
We extend our sincere hopes for a full and speedy recovery to the injured cyclist.
Bicycle Accidents in Rural Southern Indiana
While rural roads like Old State Road 56 are often seen as quieter alternatives to city traffic, they carry specific dangers for bicyclists—especially in areas with limited visibility, no bike lanes, and few traffic control devices. Intersections such as the one at North Canton Rd often lack sufficient signage or shoulder space, increasing the risk of left-turn collisions.
One of the most common causes of injury in bike-vehicle crashes is the failure of a driver to see a cyclist approaching from the opposite direction, particularly during turns. Even at moderate speeds, the force of impact can result in severe injuries due to the lack of physical protection for the rider.
In this case, a law enforcement vehicle was involved, drawing additional public interest and procedural oversight. ISP will likely examine body cam data, cruiser positioning, and road conditions as part of their investigation.
Bicyclists are encouraged to wear reflective gear, use lights when visibility is low, and approach intersections cautiously—even when they have the right-of-way. Likewise, drivers must remember that cyclists are legally entitled to use roadways and must be treated as equal participants in traffic.
If you or someone you care about has been injured in a bicycle crash, Local Accident Reports is here to provide assistance. Contact us today for access to recovery resources, local legal guidance, and supportive tools tailored to your situation.
