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CHEEKTOWAGA, Erie County, N.Y., Sept. 23, 2026 — A bicyclist was injured Monday afternoon, September 21, when a vehicle struck them on Walden Avenue in Cheektowaga, according to a scanner alert. The cyclist was reported conscious and breathing at the scene.
The crash was reported around 4:47 p.m., prompting a response from fire and police units.
Investigators continue reviewing the collision. We hope the injured cyclist recovers fully.
A Common Misconception About Bicycle Crash Injuries
Many people assume that if a cyclist is up and talking after being hit by a car, the injuries are minor. That's not a safe assumption. Adrenaline and shock can mask pain from fractures, internal injuries, or head trauma for hours after a crash, which is one reason paramedics evaluate cyclists at the scene even when they appear alert.
The scale of these crashes also gets underestimated. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an estimated 49,989 pedalcyclists were injured in traffic crashes in 2023. That figure includes many collisions where the cyclist initially seemed stable, only for injuries to surface later during a medical exam.
The takeaway for anyone involved in or witnessing a vehicle-bicycle crash is simple: being conscious and breathing is not the same as being unhurt. A follow-up medical check matters even when nothing looks broken.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can cyclists stay safer in traffic?
Riding predictably, using lights and reflective gear, following the same signals as vehicles, and making eye contact with drivers at intersections all reduce risk. Staying out of a driver's blind spot, especially near turning vehicles, is also important.
What should a cyclist do after a crash with a car?
Stay put if you're hurt and wait for medical responders. If you're able, exchange information with the driver, note the vehicle and location, and ask for a copy of the police report. Even without visible injury, a medical evaluation is worth getting.
Do cyclists have the same road rights as drivers?
In New York, cyclists generally have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers, including the right to a full lane where needed. Local ordinances can add specifics, so it helps to know the rules in your area.
Are bicycle accidents more common at intersections?
Intersections and driveways, where vehicles turn across a cyclist's path, account for a large share of these crashes. Visibility and right-of-way confusion are common factors.
What to Do After a Bicycle Crash in Cheektowaga, NY
If you're involved in or witness a bicycle crash in Cheektowaga, call 911 right away so police and medical crews can respond. Even if the cyclist seems alert, a paramedic evaluation on scene can catch injuries that aren't obvious at first.
Once everyone is safe, document what you can: names, contact information, and any visible damage or road conditions. Requesting a copy of the police report afterward can help with insurance or medical follow-up.
Give yourself time to recover, physically and otherwise. Even a "minor" bicycle crash can be jarring, and it's reasonable to see a doctor in the days after, even if you felt fine at the scene.
