Can Chicago Injury Lawyer help you after a bicycle accident? Absolutely. Evanston Township boasts a vibrant cycling culture, with dedicated bike lanes and scenic routes. However, high-traffic areas like Central Street and Ridge Avenue often see bicycle accidents due to negligent drivers. With the increasing number of cyclists on the road, drivers must be more vigilant to prevent these dangerous incidents. When they fail to do so, victims are left with significant injuries and financial burdens. If you’ve been injured in a bike crash, our attorneys at Chicago Injury Lawyer are here to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call us now at 312-261-5656 for a free, no-obligation consultation, available 24/7. With our no-fee-unless-we-win policy, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the rest.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Evanston Township
- Dooring incidents: Parked cars opening doors into cyclists’ paths, causing sudden crashes.
- Failure to yield: Drivers failing to give cyclists the right of way at intersections or crosswalks.
- Distracted driving: Motorists texting or using phones, leading to preventable collisions.
- Unsafe lane changes: Drivers failing to check blind spots for cyclists, increasing the risk of side swipes.
- Poor road conditions: Potholes, uneven pavement, and construction debris can lead to serious accidents.
- Speeding: Drivers exceeding speed limits reduce reaction times and increase crash severity.
- Driving under the influence: Alcohol and drug-impaired drivers put cyclists in grave danger.
Why Choose a Lawyer for Bicycle Accidents?
Hiring a lawyer ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive the maximum compensation available. Many accident victims assume they can handle insurance claims alone, but insurers often try to minimize settlements. Chicago Injury Lawyer specializes in bicycle accident cases, offering personalized legal representation to navigate complex claims and negotiations with insurance companies. We understand the legal complexities surrounding bicycle accidents and work tirelessly to hold negligent drivers accountable.
High-Risk Areas for Bicycle Accidents in Evanston Township
- Central Street & Green Bay Road: Heavy traffic and multiple turn lanes increase accident risk, particularly during rush hours.
- Sheridan Road & Chicago Avenue: Frequent cyclist-motorist interactions near Northwestern University contribute to a high accident rate.
- Dempster Street & Dodge Avenue: This busy intersection has limited bike-friendly infrastructure, leading to frequent collisions.
- Emerson Street & Ridge Avenue: High traffic volume and turning vehicles create dangerous conditions for cyclists.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries in Evanston Township
- Head injuries: Concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and skull fractures can have long-term effects.
- Broken bones: Fractured arms, legs, or ribs can lead to extensive medical treatment and physical therapy.
- Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spine can result in paralysis or chronic mobility issues.
- Road rash: Severe skin abrasions from impact with pavement can lead to infections and scarring.
- Internal injuries: Organ damage or internal bleeding from blunt force trauma can be life-threatening.
- Soft tissue injuries: Torn ligaments and muscle damage can cause prolonged pain and limited mobility.
Types of Common Bicycle Accidents
- Right-hook collisions: Vehicles turning right and cutting off cyclists, leading to dangerous crashes.
- Left-turn accidents: Drivers misjudging cyclists’ speed and turning into their path.
- Rear-end crashes: Vehicles failing to stop in time behind cyclists, resulting in high-impact injuries.
- Intersection accidents: Cyclists hit due to drivers running stop signs or ignoring traffic signals.
- Hit-and-run incidents: Drivers fleeing the scene after striking a cyclist, leaving victims with no immediate help.
- Side-impact crashes: Motorists failing to check for cyclists when merging or changing lanes.
Compensation for Bicycle Accident Victims in Evanston Township
Victims may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses: Coverage for emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatments.
- Lost wages: Compensation for time missed from work and diminished future earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: Recovery for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Property damage: Costs for repairing or replacing damaged bicycles and other personal property.
- Punitive damages: Additional compensation in cases involving gross negligence, such as reckless driving.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Evanston Township
- Call 911 – Report the accident to Evanston Police Department (1454 Elmwood Ave, Evanston, IL 60201).
- Seek medical attention – Visit Evanston Hospital (2650 Ridge Ave, Evanston, IL 60201) for treatment, even if injuries seem minor.
- Document the scene – Take photos of your injuries, bicycle damage, and the surrounding area.
- Collect witness information – Statements from bystanders can help prove liability.
- Do not admit fault – Stick to the facts when speaking to police or insurers.
- Keep records – Save medical bills, repair receipts, and any correspondence related to the accident.
- Contact a lawyer – Chicago Injury Lawyer can handle your case while you focus on recovery.
Local Courthouse in Evanston Township
- Cook County Circuit Court – Second Municipal District (5600 Old Orchard Rd, Skokie, IL 60077). This court handles personal injury claims and other legal matters related to bicycle accidents.
Get Directions to Our Law Office
Visit us in Chicago for a free consultation
- Address: 101 N Wacker Drive, Suite 100B, Chicago, IL 60606 Get Directions
- Driving Directions: If you’re traveling from The Loop, head north on Wacker Drive. Our office is between Lake and Randolph Streets, easily accessible from I-90 and I-94.
- Parking Options: Convenient parking is available at nearby garages, such as the Wacker & Monroe Garage, and there are metered spaces along N Wacker Drive.
- Landmarks Nearby: Our office is just steps from the Chicago Riverwalk and close to The Loop, making it a convenient location for visitors.
Contact Us
Chicago Injury Lawyers
101 N Wacker Drive, Suite 100B
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (312) 261-5656
Email: contact@chicagoinjurylawyer.com
Hours: 24/7
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What should I do if the driver flees the scene?
Report the accident to the police immediately and try to collect witness statements or security footage. If the driver is not found, uninsured motorist coverage may help cover damages.
2. Can I file a claim if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Yes, Illinois law does not require helmets for adults, and lack of a helmet does not prevent you from seeking compensation. However, insurers may argue that not wearing a helmet contributed to your injuries.
3. How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in Illinois?
Illinois has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, meaning you must file within two years of the accident date. Failing to do so may result in losing your right to compensation.
4. Who pays for my medical bills after a bicycle accident?
If the driver was at fault, their insurance should cover your medical expenses. If they are uninsured, your health insurance or uninsured motorist coverage may apply. A lawyer can help ensure all compensation avenues are explored.
5. Do I need a lawyer for a minor bicycle accident?
Even minor accidents can result in hidden injuries and costly medical bills. A lawyer ensures you receive fair compensation for all damages, including medical costs and lost income.
6. Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault?
Illinois follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation if you were less than 50% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
