The Windy City has once again been named one of the nation’s Top 10 cycling cities as safety advocates and others continue to work together to add cycling infrastructure and reduce the risk of Chicago bicycle accidents.
Our Chicago bicycle accident lawyers have reported on a number of initiatives recently, including the announcement that protected bike lanes would be coming to Chicago — the first of at least 100 miles of protected bike lanes planned by Mayor Rahm Emanuel.Bicycle Magazine announced the Top 10 cities are Minneapolis, Portland, Boulder, Seattle, Eugene, San Francisco, Madison, New York City, Tucson and Chicago. It’s the second year in a row the city ranked 10th best in the nation.
“One of my top priorities as mayor is to create a bike network that allows every Chicagoan — from kids on their first ride to senior citizens on their way to the grocery store — to feel safe on our streets,” Emanuel said. “When you hop on your bike this year, please remember to bike responsibly, with care for yourself and your fellow Chicagoans.”
The City of Chicago has more than 110 miles of on-street bike lanes, more than 30 miles of shared bike lanes, and many miles of off-street paths — including the Lakefront Trail, which is nearly 20 miles. The city also has installed and maintained 12,000 bike racks and has sheltered bike parking at many CTA rail stations, according to the Chicago Department of Transportation.
While the vast majority of accidents are caused by careless or inattentive drivers, the city also recently began a crackdown on cyclists as authorities push safety through the summer riding months, the Chicago Tribune reported. Police handed out 240 warnings and 1 ticket during the two-hour morning rush.
The city DOT reports about 1,300 Chicago bicycle accidents occur each year — about five riders are killed. Our Chicago personal injury lawyers understand that many more are very seriously injured — a number that could continue to climb with the popularity of cycling unless there continues to be significant emphasis on safety.
Resources
Chicago Bicycle Laws
If you or a family member is involved in a Chicago bicycle accident, Abels & Annes offers free and confidential appointments to discuss your rights. Call (866) 99-ABELS. There is no fee unless you win.
Chicago Bicycle Blog Posts
Chicago Bike Accident Lawyer Interviewed Regarding New Bicycle Sharing Program, Aug. 9, 2010.
Chicago named one of best cities for bike riding; avoiding summer bicycle accidents remains a concern, April 23, 2010.