Cycling has become increasingly popular recently for a means to get healthier, to be “greener”, and for many, as a means of transportation. While cycling has decreased in popularity among those six to 17 years old, the total number of cyclists in the U.S. in 2017 was over 47 million and it has just continued to grow. With a large number of these cyclists on urban roadways, it is important that motor vehicle drivers understand and follow the rules of the road regarding cyclists so that everyone can remain safe and free from serious and life-changing injuries.
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 the 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 Road Laws Regarding Cyclists
Rules regarding cyclists vary from state to state and municipality to municipality. Chicago is one of the more progressive cities with rules regarding cyclists and motor vehicles, especially because Chicago requires cyclists to use the roads instead of riding on sidewalks.
Some of the road rules regarding cyclists include:
- Left turns – Chicago motor vehicle drivers are required to yield to cyclists approaching in the opposite direction when making a left-hand turn.
- Right turns – Chicago law says that when a motorist is turning right, they may not turn directly in front of a bicycle that is traveling in the same direction.
- Three-foot rule – There are 20 states, including Illinois, that require drivers to give cyclists a minimum of a three-foot buffer zone when passing.
- Dooring law – Chicago recently passed a dooring law that requires motor vehicle drivers to utilize the “Dutch Reach” before opening their door. This means a driver will reach across their body with their right hand to reach the door handle, forcing them to look behind them before opening their car door.
Motor vehicle drivers are required to treat cyclists as any other vehicle on the roadways and because bicycles are considered a vehicle, cyclists are required to follow the rules of the road as well.
When drivers fail to yield to cyclists, the results can be serious and at times, even fatal. Cyclists have very little protection putting them at risk for fractures, internal injuries, lacerations, and traumatic brain injuries. If you or a loved one was involved in a cycling accident where a driver failed to yield, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
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.
We see you as a person, not just a client – and that makes us better at what 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 a meeting with us here. We’re here 24/7.
