South Elgin Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Bicycles are a popular form of transportation that carries many benefits, including saving money on gas and health benefits. However, the high rate of traffic and the significant number of local bike riders leads to more bicycle accidents. Bike and motor vehicle accidents often have severe and lasting consequences for the rider.

When you suffer severe injuries in a crash because of a careless motorist, a capable personal injury attorney could help you collect compensation to cover your losses. Call an experienced South Elgin bicycle accident lawyer to schedule a consultation today.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Bike Crashes?

Many bicycle collisions are avoidable and occur because of careless drivers. Common causes of bike accidents include:

• Distracted driving
• Motorists failing to yield the right-of-way
• Speeding and reckless driving
• Rolling stops or failing to stop for stop signs and red lights
• Motorists swinging vehicle doors open into the patch of a cyclist
• Driving under the influence

A skilled South Elgin attorney could investigate a bike wreck to determine how the incident occurred and who caused it.

Recoverable Damages in Bicycle Accident Cases

After proving the defendant was liable for the victim’s damages, the court will usually break the award into two categories. Economic damages cover out-of-pocket expenses such as medical care, lost salary, and future earning potential.

Non-economic damages cover personal injuries such as pain and suffering, mental, and emotional anguish. When deciding what to award bike crash victims, the court will consider many elements, including the extent of injuries and the accident details. Because bike riders often suffer severe injuries, these settlements are usually significant.

Bicycle Rider Rights and Responsibilities

Understanding the legal rights and responsibilities of those on bikes is one way to avoid accidents. According to the Illinois Compiled Statutes Chapter 625 § 5/11-1502, every cyclist has the same rights to the roadways as motor vehicle drivers. That said, bike riders must also follow the same road laws as other motorists. Other safety regulations that bikers must follow include:

• Riding as far to the right side of the lane as possible when traveling at a slower pace than the rest of the traffic
• Using an entire lane when moving at the same speed as traffic, preparing to turn, passing, or avoiding hazards
• Using bike lanes next to the road and avoiding sidewalks where pedestrians are traveling
• Watching for motorists opening doors

On the other hand, drivers must ensure there are no approaching bicycles before opening the door safely. During a consultation, a knowledgeable lawyer in South Elgin could answer questions about safety rules and regulations that bike riders must follow to avoid crashes.

Meet With a Knowledgeable Bicycle Accident Attorney in South Elgin

A bike collision caused by a negligent motorist can leave you with painful injuries, unable to work while you recover, and needing ongoing and costly medical care. A civil claim to recover compensation from the at-fault party could cover healthcare costs, missed time from work, and subjective losses, such as pain and suffering.

Call a South Elgin bicycle accident lawyer to schedule a meeting when you need help recovering damages. Call today to schedule a consultation and begin working on your case immediately.