In recent decades, the number of residents in Chicago that ride bicycles regularly or on occasion has increased dramatically. Many are now commuting by cycle while others are enjoying a ride over the weekend. In response, the city has created bicycle lanes, protected areas to ride, and even shared bicycle and vehicular areas on the street. Even where a road is not marked specifically for bicycle traffic, cyclists are entitled to ride on the roads unless it is expressly prohibited.
Unfortunately the increase in ridership has also caused an increase in bicycle-related accidents when compared to times with fewer rides. Bicycle accidents in Chicago claim numerous lives every year and leave many more riders injured and left to deal with the aftermath of a collision, from the medical expenses that may be incurred to the pain and suffering likely to be endured. When a bicycle accident results from a mistake or an error on the part of a driver involved, the victims of that collision may be entitled to financial relief for any damages sustained. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer who has experience representing bicycle accident victims may help you understand your legal options if you have been hurt in a crash or if your loved one has lost his or her life.
Local authorities confirmed that a bicyclist was involved in a crash near Midway Airport early on Sunday morning. The rider was reportedly traveling east on 55th Street shortly before 1:00 a.m. when a passenger car turning in the area struck the bicyclist, causing a collision. Emergency medical crews responded to the crash and transported the rider, a 44-year-old man, to Christ Medical Center for treatment but the extent of his injuries were too severe and he was pronounced dead a short time thereafter.
Police are still investigating the circumstances that led to the fatal collision and trying to determine why the driver and the cyclist were in the same area at the same time. At this point, the driver has been cited for failing to reduce her speed to avoid a crash but it is unclear whether any other citations or charges will be brought.
If you have been involved in a bicycle accident in Chicago and you were injured, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your damages. The facts and circumstances surrounding any individual incident vary so it is important to understand the law as it applies to your particular collision.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we believe that victims deserve to understand their legal options, including whether they may have a valid claim or claims for their relief. To that end, we offer a free case consultation to all victims who call us toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575. We provide the consultation without any obligation on your part and everything discussed will be kept confidential.
If you have been hurt in a collision, do not let yourself continue to be victimized. Call Abels & Annes, P.C. today and let us help you seek the relief you deserve.
Prior Blog Entry:
Charges Brought in Fatal Chicago Pedestrian Accident, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published August 14, 2014.
Resource:
Bicyclist Killed In Car Crash Near Midway Airport, ABC 7 News, published August 17, 2014.