Bike riders have the same rights and responsibilities as everyone else sharing the road, but sadly, many drivers either ignore or are unaware of the rules.
Traumatic bicycle accidents can leave you with painful injuries and damages. Fortunately, options are available to cyclists who sustain damages in a collision with a careless driver. Civil legislation in Illinois gives you the legal right to pursue a personal injury claim to hold the liable party financially responsible. For professional help with your case, call a qualified Plainfield bicycle accident lawyer and schedule a consultation as soon as possible.
As with motor vehicle crashes and pedestrian accidents, when negligence is involved, the injured party has the legal right to pursue damages. A Plainfield bicycle accident attorney can investigate the cause of an accident and gather vital evidence to prove liability. Some of the most typical causes of collisions and injuries include the following:
Dooring bicycle accidents happen when a motorist or passenger swings a car door open into the patch of an oncoming cyclist. When the rider does not have time to avoid the accident and a collision occurs, it can leave the cyclist with severe and sometimes life-threatening injuries.
Left-hand turns are another common reason severe bicycle crashes occur. They often happen when a bicyclist and motorist are heading in opposite directions, and the car makes a left-hand turn in the bike’s path.
Many negligent motorist actions present severe risks for bicycle riders. Some of the most dangerous distractions are texting and driving or driving after drinking or using other intoxicating substances.
Bike safety equipment is essential for safe travel, with bicycle helmets being the most important accessory. In fact, there are minimum safety requirements that cyclists in Illinois must meet or risk receiving a traffic citation.
According to the Illinois Bicycle Rules of the Road, all bikes must have the following safety equipment:
While Illinois regulations require bicycle deliverers and messengers to wear helmets, there are no rules for other adults or children who ride bikes. Even so, safety helmets are vital for safe operation and can reduce the risk of suffering traumatic brain injuries by as much as 85 percent. A knowledgeable bicycle accident attorney in Plainfield could answer any questions you may have regarding safety rules and regulations.
Bicycles are a common form of transportation in Plainfield and throughout Illinois. Cycling provides countless benefits for riders, such as exercise for a healthy lifestyle. It also benefits the environment since, unlike cars, bikes do not require fossil fuels. While there are many advantages, riders face many risks—especially from negligent motorists.
Civil law rules and regulations may entitle you to compensation when a careless driver injures you in a bicycle crash. Schedule to meet with an experienced Plainfield bicycle accident lawyer to review your case and prepare a claim for damages.