Cycling is a healthy and affordable way to get around the city, but riders have little protection when a careless driver makes a mistake. A collision with a vehicle can cause a cyclist to suffer broken bones, head injuries, or worse. A dedicated personal injury lawyer could help you hold the responsible driver accountable.
Building a strong claim requires a clear understanding of the law and the evidence. A Chicago bicycle accident lawyer could explain the rules that protect riders and identify evidence that could show how a driver caused the crash. At Schlack & Bassmaji, we could pursue compensation that may help with your recovery and support your family. Contact us today to learn more.
State law gives bicyclists the same rights as drivers, along with specific protections. Under the Illinois Vehicle Code, 625 Illinois Compiled Statutes 5/11-703, a motorist passing a cyclist must leave a distance of at least three feet. When a driver crowds a rider or passes too closely, that violation may provide evidence of negligence.
Another common danger is dooring. Under 625 ILCS 5/11-1407, a driver or passenger may not open a car door into the path of a cyclist unless it is safe to do so. When someone opens a door without looking, the rider may have little time to react.
These laws exist to keep you safe, and a bicycle collision attorney from our Chicago firm could use them to help build a strong claim on your behalf.
Strong evidence often plays a central role in your claim, and some evidence can disappear within days. The scene changes, memories fade, and repairs alter vehicles. Acting quickly may help preserve evidence that shows what happened. Key documentation often includes:
Gathering this evidence takes skill and speed. Our Chicago lawyers have experience with bicycle crash claims and could secure the necessary records, work with experts when needed, and build a claim the insurance company cannot easily dismiss.
Because cyclists have little protection, crashes can cause severe, long-lasting injuries. Even at low speeds, a vehicle can cause serious harm when it strikes a cyclist. Common injuries include:
If another driver caused your injuries, you may pursue compensation for medical bills and future care, lost income, physical pain, and emotional suffering.
Under state law, you generally have two years to file a claim, but the statute of limitations is just one year if a municipal entity, such as a city agency or public transit system, could be liable. For bicycle collision claims in Chicago, our attorneys could evaluate your losses and pursue compensation that may help support your family.
A bicycle crash can change your life in seconds, but you do not have to face recovery alone. With the right legal support, you may hold a careless driver accountable and pursue resources that could help you move forward and provide for your family.
If a driver injured you while you were riding, contact a Chicago bicycle accident lawyer at Schlack & Bassmaji today. You can speak with us in English or Spanish, whichever feels right for you and your family. We could listen to your story, explain your options, and pursue compensation to help support your family.
