Bicycle Accidents
Cyclists in Chicago face significant risks from inattentive drivers, poor road conditions, and the lack of dedicated bike infrastructure in some areas. A bicycle accident can result in serious injuries, medical bills, and time away from work. A careless action by a motorist or a neglected roadway can lead to a long and painful recovery in just a few seconds.
A bicycle accident lawyer can help injured riders recover the compensation they need to move forward. From investigating the cause of the crash to negotiating with insurance companies, legal guidance plays a critical role in protecting your rights and securing fair results. Compensation may include medical expenses, lost income, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering.
We advocate for injured cyclists throughout the Chicago area and help them pursue the compensation they deserve. At Rudich Law, we bring decades of personal injury experience to every case and know how to handle the challenges of insurance resistance. Our approach is focused, practical, and built around supporting each client’s recovery.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Chicago
Bicycle accidents often occur due to negligence by drivers, property owners, or public agencies. We work to identify what went wrong and who is legally responsible.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted or inattentive drivers
- Failure to yield at intersections or crosswalks
- Opening car doors into bike lanes (“dooring”)
- Speeding or reckless driving in urban areas
- Hazardous road conditions, such as potholes or debris
- Inadequate lighting or obstructed bike lane markings
Establishing responsibility requires evidence such as traffic laws, accident reports, video footage, and witness statements. A bicycle accident attorney can help gather and organize this information to present a clear and convincing claim.
Legal Rights and Liability in Bicycle Crashes
Cyclists in Illinois are entitled to the same protections as other road users. When drivers fail to follow traffic laws or disrespect the space cyclists need to ride safely, they may be held accountable for the resulting injuries. Sometimes, responsibility may also lie with a municipality or business that created a hazardous condition.
Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You may still recover compensation if you are less than 51% at fault. Insurance companies often attempt to shift blame to the rider, which makes timely legal help essential. We push back against these tactics and build strong, fact-based cases supporting full financial recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Illinois does not require helmets for adults. Not wearing one will not automatically prevent you from recovering damages, though it may be considered in some claims involving head injuries.
Who can be held liable in a bicycle accident?
Depending on the facts, the driver, a commercial vehicle operator, a municipality, or a third party responsible for unsafe road conditions may be held accountable.
How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in Illinois?
You generally have two years from the accident date to file a claim. If a government entity is involved, notice deadlines may apply sooner.
Legal Support for Injured Cyclists
A bicycle crash can bring more than just physical injuries—it can disrupt your finances, affect your independence, and leave you dealing with lasting pain. We are here to help you through it.
At Rudich Law, we provide experienced legal support to cyclists injured in Chicago and the surrounding areas. We investigate each case carefully, pursue every potential source of compensation, and advocate for our clients when insurers resist.
If you or someone you care about was injured in a bicycle accident, contact us today. You can also learn more about our practice areas, Attorney Roger D. Rudich, and how we serve the Chicago community.
