Cyclists in Chicago are increasing every year. The addition of the bike share program called Divvy has only served to make bicycling more accessible to residents and visitors alike, enabling these individuals to take to the streets of Chicago and travel on two wheels. Bicycling is an efficient and affordable means of transportation and one encouraged in many areas of the city, yet unfortunately, bicycling is not always safe. Though the laws in Illinois authorize biker riders to use the streets just as other vehicles do, drivers do not always respect the rights of these cyclists, leading to collisions that may result in injuries or even death.
Bicycle accidents were responsible for 3,464 injuries and 24 deaths in Illinois in 2010 alone. Many of these cyclists were not at-fault for the collisions that occurred but were still forced to bear injuries caused by the accident, leading to medical bills, time missed from work, and pain and suffering where injuries occurred. Though these victims cannot erase a collision, they may be entitled to relief through the use of a civil claim for damages, which is separate and distinct from any traffic-related charges that may be brought by the State of Illinois. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer in Chicago who has experience representing bicycle accident victims may be able to help you understand your legal options if you have been hurt in a collision.
A bicyclist was injured in an accident on Monday afternoon in Archer Heights. Though he initially survived the collision, his injuries were too severe and he died as a result of the crash yesterday afternoon. Police have reported that the collision took place near Lawndale Avenue and Archer Avenue shortly after 3:00 p.m. and that it involved a 55-year-old man on a bicycle and a semi-truck. Officials have not determined why the two collided but have confirmed that the crash resulted in the cyclist becoming trapped underneath the truck for some time before emergency crews were able to free him and transport the victim to Mount Sinai Hospital.
At this time, no traffic citations have been issued in the collision and police are still investigating the crash.
Bicycle accidents and collisions with semi-trucks are both likely to cause serious injuries, but in the event that a bicycle and a truck collide, the results can be catastrophic. Common injuries may include broken or fractured bones, cuts and lacerations, and head injuries, even if a cyclist is wearing a helmet.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we understand that it can be devastating to be the victim of an accident that was caused by the mistake of another driver. For that reason, we offer all injury victims a free case consultation and we provide it 24 hours a day, seven days a week toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575. There is no obligation on your part for taking advantage of the free consultation and everything discussed will be kept confidential.
If you have been hurt in a bicycle accident in Chicago or if your loved one has been killed, you may be entitled to legal relief for your damages. Call Abels & Annes, P.C. today and let us help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Prior Blog Entry:
Two Car Crash in Chicago Leaves 4 Injured, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published August 7, 2014.
Resource:
Man dies days after getting hit by truck while riding bike, Chicago Tribune, published August 7, 2014.