Updated August 2019
Bicycling is a great exercise. Gyms feature spin classes and exercise bikes are always popular. But, nothing beats the experiencing biking outdoors in the fresh air. However, the mobility and sometimes unexpected changes in direction of bikes on our streets create considerable risks for riders and drivers. While fatalities from bike accidents with cars are rare, injuries to bicycle riders can be catastrophic. The growing number of bicyclers and the ever-increasing Chicago traffic creates a risky situation.
As an attorney, every day I am personally involved in fighting for those who are injured as a result of the negligence of others. Injuries to bicyclers and those in car accidents can be severe and life-changing. Based upon this risk, I’d like to make some suggestions for both bicycle riders and drivers to limit the likelihood of accidents.
Hints for Bicycle Riders.
If you are bicycling for your health or for enjoyment, there are a few steps to ensure that you avoid getting involved in a bicycle accident with a car.
Stay Visible.
Most motorists are not looking or bicycles and this oversight can easily lead to collisions. Make it as easy as possible for cars and trucks to see you. Wear light, reflective clothing and use lights and reflective stickers on your bicycle – especially when riding at night or in poor lighting conditions.
Follow the Rules-of-the-Road.
Signal before all turns and always ride with traffic. Follow traffic signals just as you would when driving. Don’t merge with traffic from unexpected locations – like off sidewalks where cars don’t expect to see you.
Choose Routes Carefully.
Where possible, ride in bicycle lanes or choose a path in a park or preserve. Avoid the high-volume streets.
Take it Seriously.
Never text while riding and stay off your cellphone. You’d never drive drunk so don’t ride after drinking. Distracted riding and biking while fatigued puts you at risk. If you wouldn’t do it in a car, don’t do it while on a bicycle. Keep your focus on biking – especially if you are sharing the road with larger vehicles.
Helmet.
Always wear a helmet. While it will not prevent a crash, it can help reduce serious head injuries if you are involved in an accident. Wearing a helmet, safety experts agree, is one of the best ways to prevent head trauma and injury. Wear one every time you hop on your bike.
Hints for Drivers.
Motorists can help by staying alert for bicyclers. In many accidents involving passenger cars, motorist claim they simply did not see a bicycler in time. Stay alert when passing popular areas for bicycler and never drive in the bike lane. Give bicyclers plenty of room. You need good response time and a good focus. If you are tired or enjoyed an alcoholic beverage, take a cab or get a friend to drive you safely home.
Chicagoland Car and Bicycle Accident Liability.
Accidents and injuries caused by collisions between cars and bicyclers can be severe and life-changing. Anyone injured has the right to receive compensation from the ‘at-fault’ driver.
The Attorneys at Friend, Levinson, & Turner are knowledgeable and expert in representing people injured while riding bicycles. We apply a disciplined approach to gain a comprehensive perspective on the facts, issues, and injuries experienced by victims. We make the legal process as stress-free as possible. We focus on recovering the compensation you deserve, while you focus on healing and recovery.
The attorneys at Friend, Levinson & Turner Law make the legal process as stress-free as possible. We focus on recovering compensation for you – while you concentrate on your physical and emotional recovery.
If you or a loved one is injured in an auto accident, please call my office at 312-346-8465 or contact us using the form below.
