Bicycle Accident Attorneys Committed To Protecting Your Rights
Last updated on August 22, 2024
Cyclists face numerous dangers when riding, especially when sharing the road with cars and larger vehicles. Negligent drivers can change a cyclist’s life in an instant.
At Martin Law, LLC, we are here for you when your life has been upended. Our bicycle accident attorneys are a father-daughter team who share a commitment to making an impact. We have secured numerous multimillion-dollar settlements and verdicts for injury victims in vehicle accident cases across Illinois. Based in Arlington Heights, we have developed a strong reputation for integrity and dedication to our clients.
Common Causes Of Bicycle Accidents In Chicago
Bicycle accidents in the Chicago area can occur due to a variety of factors. Here are some of the most frequent contributors:
- Distracted driving: Driver distractions such as cellphones are a leading contributor to bicycle crashes.
- Doorings: These incidents occur when drivers or passengers fail to check for approaching cyclists before opening their car door.
- Right-turn accidents: Drivers making right turns may not see a cyclist traveling alongside them, leading to accidents at intersections.
- Left-turn accidents: Drivers turning left at an intersection or into a driveway might fail to notice a cyclist in their path.
- Speeding: Speed is a contributing factor in many crashes.
- Failure to yield: Drivers who don’t honor cyclists’ right of way at intersections or traffic signals can cause serious collisions.
- Low visibility: Accidents are more likely to occur at night or during poor weather conditions when visibility is reduced.
We all play a role in keeping the roads safe. Both cyclists and drivers must remain vigilant and aware of these hazards.
What To Do After A Chicago Bicycle Accident
A bicycle accident can be disorienting and life-shattering. Taking the right steps immediately afterward is critical for both your well-being and any potential legal claims. Here are some actions to take if you find yourself in this unfortunate situation:
- Seek immediate medical attention: Your injuries might not be obvious, especially when adrenaline is running high after the crash. A medical professional can provide a thorough examination and document any injuries.
- Call 911: An official police report provides a record of the incident, which is useful for legal and insurance purposes.
- Document the accident scene with photos: Take clear pictures of the crash, your bicycle, your injuries and any relevant street signs or signals. These photos can serve as important evidence in your case.
- Gather witness contact information: If there were any bystanders who witnessed the accident, ask for their names and contact details. Witness statements can significantly strengthen your claim.
- Preserve your gear and bicycle: Keep your bicycle and any gear (like your helmet) in the same condition they were after the accident. These can be critical pieces of evidence in demonstrating the impact and circumstances of the crash.
- Contact a bicycle injury attorney: Our experienced bike accident lawyers can guide you through the legal process, deal with insurance issues and work to get you fair compensation.
You may have grounds to seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses such as hospital bills, medication costs and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages for the income lost during recovery
- Pain and suffering to address the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property damage – that is, reimbursement for your bicycle and other personal items involved in the crash.
Our bicycle accident attorneys will work diligently to make sure that none of your accident-related expenses get overlooked.
Get A Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured on a bicycle, please call 847-261-4995 for a free consultation with one of our bicycle accident attorneys. We’re here to help you recover the compensation you need to get back on track.