When bicycle accidents happen in Springfield, Illinois, it’s important to seek legal representation from a reputable and experienced Springfield bicycle accident lawyer. Many bicycle accidents cause serious injuries, leaving bicycle accident victims overwhelmed. Our personal injury law firm has a proven track record of representing Illinois bicyclists who have been injured in accidents due to negligent drivers. We can guide you through the legal process to recover financial compensation.
What Are Bicycle Laws in Illinois?
By Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/11-1512), cyclists on sidewalks or crosswalks must yield to pedestrians and give an audible signal before passing them. Riding on sidewalks or crosswalks is not allowed where signs prohibit it. Cyclists on sidewalks or crosswalks have the same rights and responsibilities as pedestrians on city streets.
Do I Need a Springfield Bicycle Accident Attorney?
When bike accidents occur due to someone else’s recklessness, and your bike crash led to a serious personal injury, lost wages, or medical bills, legal help can make a difference.
A personal injury attorney can help by investigating the accident scene, gathering evidence (like medical records, witness statements, and input from accident reconstruction experts), proving negligence, assessing the value of your case, and managing all aspects of the claims process.
While most personal injury claims are settled at the negotiation table, insurance adjusters often offer low settlements. If fair compensation for injuries sustained is not offered, we can argue your case in court.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident
After a bicycle accident, ensure your safety by moving to a secure location if possible. Seek medical treatment; many common injuries are not immediately apparent. Document the scene by taking photos, gathering contact details of witnesses, and retaining the police report. Report the incident to authorities and seek medical attention promptly, even for minor injuries.
Common Causes of Bicycle Crashes in Springfield, IL
Injured cyclists are often harmed by drivers who violate traffic laws. Causes of bicycle-car crashes include driver negligence—including distracted driving, impaired driving, failing to yield at intersections, dooring accidents, drivers pulling into bike lanes, drivers making unsafe lane changes, or speeding.
Common Severe Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Injured bicyclists often face devastating injuries (or even fatal injuries) in motor vehicle accidents due to minimal bodily protection. These injuries commonly include road rash (severe skin abrasions), facial injuries, head injuries (such as concussions or traumatic brain injuries), back and spinal cord injuries, broken bones, internal bleeding, and other internal injuries (like organ damage).
What If I’m Partially to Blame?
Even if you share some blame for an accident, you can still file a personal injury claim. Illinois law uses a comparative negligence system, allowing you to seek compensation if you’re less than 50% at fault.
For instance, if the other driver is 80% responsible (and you’re 20% at fault), you can still recover 80% of the economic and non-economic damages. Our Springfield bike accident attorneys will review your case to help you recover compensation.
What Is My Bicycle Accident Claim Value?
An experienced bicycle accident attorney will evaluate your Springfield bicycle accident case, considering factors such as the extent of your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and the overall impact the accident has had on your life. Springfield bicyclists may be eligible to recover damages for:
- Past and future medical expenses, including physical therapy
- Lost income and earning potential
- Pain and suffering—physical pain and emotional distress
- Bike repair or replacement
- Financial support for certain beneficiaries of bike riders involved in fatal accidents
How Long Will It Take to Receive My Settlement?
The timeline for resolving most bicycle accident cases can vary significantly. Some personal injury cases may settle within weeks or months, while others take longer, particularly if they proceed to trial.
Key factors making a more complex legal process include the severity of injuries and required treatments, investigation and discovery in difficult cases, the negotiation process with insurance companies, accidents in which deaths occurred, and whether a fair settlement with substantial compensation can be reached (or if court action becomes necessary).
Call Us for a Free Consultation
When a bicycle-car accident occurs, the experienced personal injury lawyers in our personal injury law firm are here to help you take legal action for your bicycle accident injuries to recover maximum compensation. Our legal team works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront legal fees.
(312) 223-1700