Yes, many people are under the impression that there has to be physical contact between the bicyclist and vehicle for the motorist to be liable. This is not true. There are many situations were a cyclist can be injured because they had to take evasive action to avoid being hit and crashed as a result. The motorist can still be held liable if negligence can be proved. This is much more difficult than if there was contact, however. It can be accomplished if there are witnesses and if evidence can be preserved.