Bicycles travel on the right-hand side of the road, making right-turn collisions quite common. Right turn collisions occur when a motor vehicle turns right and hits the bicyclist or causes them to overcompensate to avoid being hit. These collisions are especially dangerous as they pin the cyclist between traffic and the side of the road, often leaving the cyclist with nowhere to go and putting them at risk for serious injuries and even death.
At Mike Agruss Law, 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.
Chicago Law Regarding Right Turns
Chicago has specific laws regarding right turns and bicycles. According to Municipal Code 9-16-020 (f):
“When a motor vehicle and a bicycle are traveling in the same direction on any highway, street, or road, the operator of the motor vehicle overtaking such bicycle traveling on the right side of the roadway shall not turn to the right in front of the bicycle at that intersection or at any alley or driveway until such vehicle has overtaken and is safely clear of the bicycle.”
While these laws are meant to protect cyclists, it does not mean that everyone knows or follows the rules, which puts cyclists at risk for severe injuries, extensive damages, and death.
Causes of Right Turn Collisions
Most drivers are not accustomed to looking to their right before making a right turn in the right lane, especially when traffic signs allow for a right turn on red. Because cyclists are already at a disadvantage due to diminished visibility, they are more likely to be struck. Other causes of right turn collisions include:
- Distracted driving – Talking on the phone, texting, changing the radio station, or using GPS takes a driver’s eyes from the roadway and can be just as dangerous as drunk driving.
- Drunk driving – A drunk driver cannot follow the rules of the road and will have difficulty seeing an already less visible cyclist.
- Blind spots – Cyclists are more difficult to see and if a motor vehicle driver does not check their blind spots, they can cause a serious right-turn collision.
Preventing Right Turn Collisions
A cyclist is rarely to blame for a right turn collision however they should do their part to prevent these accidents and possibly save their life. All cyclists should ride defensively and follow certain steps to ensure they are safe on the roadways, including:
- Wear bright clothing – A cyclist is harder to see than a motor vehicle. By wearing bright clothing and using reflective gear, you increase your visibility.
- Slow down – When approaching an intersection, prepare yourself by slowing down in the event you need to make a stop, especially if a motor vehicle turns suddenly in front of you.
- Keep watch of other vehicles – It is important to anticipate trouble before it happens, so keep an eye on the vehicles ahead of and beside your bicycle and watch for their turn signals and brake lights.
Right turn collisions will usually be found to be the fault of the motor vehicle driver, making the driver liable for you or your loved one’s injuries and damages. An experienced personal injury lawyer can assist you in your right turn collision claim and ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
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 Mike Agruss Law, for a free consultation.
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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 [email protected] or schedule a meeting with us here. We’re here 24/7.
