Illinois has embraced the increase in cyclists taking to its roadways. Whether it be recreation, for health reasons, or as an alternative means of transportation, cycling has exploded in recent years. With this increase in interest has come an increase in the number of bike lanes available for cyclists. While bike lanes are created to help keep cyclists safe, accidents still occur.
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.
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.
Bike Lanes vs. Bike Paths
The terms “bike lane” and “bike path” are often used interchangeably, however they are actually different. A bike path is a paved path that keeps cyclists separate from traffic but is also accessible to pedestrians and joggers, usually seen in parks.
A bike lane, marked with white stripes, is normally on city streets and may only be used by cyclists. Motor vehicle drivers may park to the right of the bike lane, but nobody but cyclists are permitted to utilize these lanes.
While bike lanes are created to keep cyclists safer, there are still risks associated with riding a bicycle on the streets.
Common Types of Bike Lane Accidents
Chicago has over 200-miles of dedicated bike lanes throughout the city and there are extensive plans in the works for even more. As more and more cyclists take to the roads of Illinois, it is only logical that bicycle accidents will increase. Some of the most common types of bike lane accidents that occur include:
- Bicycle vs. Bicycle Accidents-As more cyclists are using their bikes as an alternative means of transportation, bicycle vs. bicycle accidents on city streets are increasing. Because cyclists are essentially unprotected, these accidents can cause devastating injuries.
- Bicycle vs. Pedestrian Accidents-Many pedestrians are unaware that they are not to use the dedicated bike lanes, or they choose to ignore that fact. When a bicycle and pedestrian collide, both have the risk of being seriously injured.
- Bicycle vs. Motor Vehicles-Bike lanes do not provide much in the way of protection for cyclists and often allow motor vehicles to cross through the lane at intersections. Also, because cars, trucks, and SUV’s are often able to park next to bike lanes, dooring accidents often occur.
If you or a loved one was involved in a bicycle accident and you were injured due to no fault of your own, you should consider discussing your case with an experienced personal injury lawyer.
We at America’s Consumer Lawyer are proud to serve our fellow citizens in personal injury cases, especially when you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, and we are fully committed to protecting your rights and ensuring that the other party is held legally accountable when negligence occurs. We will fight until the very end to ensure that you are fully compensated for all injuries and losses resulting from the accident, including medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering, and you won’t owe us a dime for our services.
We see you as a person, not just a client – and that makes us better at work we do. We listen. We learn your story. And, as we help you get the money you deserve, we go above and beyond in a way most law firms never could and never would. Because we’re not just lawyers. And you’re not just a client. We’re friends, neighbors, family. We’re all people and here at America’s Consumer Lawyer, we put People, First.
Helping our clients is about counseling, advocating, and ultimately solving problems. With years of experience successfully representing the people, not the powerful, we will take care of the insurance adjusters, your medical bills, your property damage, your lost wages, and monitor your treatment so you can focus on healing and getting your life back to normal. Our unique formula has earned us over 900 outstanding client reviews on our website, an A+ BBB rating, and over 120 five-star reviews on Google. Call 888-572-0176, e-mail us at michael@agrusslawfirm.com, or schedule meeting with us here. We’re here 24/7.
