More and more cyclists are taking to Illinois’ roadways every day, more biking laws are being passed to keep them safe. While bicycles are generally treated as any other motor vehicle, Illinois has specific laws in place that target cyclists and how other vehicles on the road must interact with them. Bicycle accidents are often serious and sometimes deadly, which is why Illinois continues to pass these important biking laws.
At America’s Consumer Lawyer, we represent clients in Illinois who have suffered personal injuries from a bicycle accident, as well as family members who have lost a loved one in a road accident caused by negligent or reckless conduct of another person. We know that when a bicycle collides with a vehicle weighing at least 2,000 pounds, the odds are not in the cyclist’s favor and the results can be tragic.
Illinois Vehicle Code 625 ILCS 5/Ch.11 Article XV. Bicycles
Motor vehicle laws are in place to keep people safe and prevent accidents. Because cyclists are at a distinct disadvantage each time they take to the roadways, they are given special protections under Illinois law because of their vulnerability. It is important that all cyclists review and understand all the rules that pertain to cycling to keep themselves, and others, safe.
Some of the statutes under Illinois Vehicle Code that pertain to Bicycles include:
- Sec. 11-1502: Cyclists shall be granted all the rights and duties as any other vehicle on the roadway.
- Sec. 11-1504: No cyclist should attach themselves to any other moving vehicle.
- Sec. 11-1505: A cyclist that is operating at less-than-normal traffic speed should ride as close as is practical and safe to the right-hand side of the road, except when turning left, attempting to overtake another cyclist or vehicle, when attempting to avoid a right-hand turning lane, or to avoid obstacles.
- Sec. 11-1505.1: When on a roadway, cyclists should not ride more than two abreast and should not impede the normal and reasonable flow of traffic.
- Sec. 11-1506: No cyclist may carry any package, bundle, or article that impedes their ability to keep both hands in control of and provide safe handling of their bicycle. Cyclists must keep at least one hand on the handlebars at all times.
- Sec. 11-1507: Bicycles that are used at night must have a front light that emits a white light at least 500 feet to the front and a Department approved red reflector on the rear of the bicycle. All bicycles must be equipped with functioning brakes, pedal reflectors, and side reflectors which are Department approved.
- Sec. 11-1509: A police officer may stop and inspect any bicycle they feel is unsafe for the road.
Motorist Laws Pertaining to Bicycles
In addition to the laws that cyclists must follow, motorists are subject to specific laws and statutes when they share the roadways with bicycles. These laws include:
- Sec. 11-1003.1: All motorists must exercise due care to avoid colliding with anyone on a bicycle.
- Sec. 11-1407: Drivers are not permitted to open their doors into traffic until it is safe to do so and will not impede the flow of traffic. Doors may not be left open for any longer than is necessary to load or unload passengers.
- Sec. 11-603: Drivers must maintain a minimum 3-foot distance between a cyclist and their vehicle when passing the bicycle on the left.
- Sec. 11-902: When turning left at an intersection, a driver must yield to a cyclist that is traveling in the opposite direction if the cyclist is in or approaching the intersection.
When motorists and cyclists fail to follow these important rules of the road, they put others at-risk for serious and catastrophic injuries and wrongful death. If you or a loved one was injured in a bicycle accident due to no fault of your own, you deserve fair compensation.
It’s important to consult with an experienced Chicago bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and determine if you have a valid personal injury claim or wrongful death claim against a reckless or negligent driver. If you were injured in a bicycle accident, contact America’s Consumer Lawyer, for a free consultation.
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