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Bicycle Accident Lawyer Elgin, Il
Cycling Risks and Legal Help in Elgin, IL
An Elgin bicycle accident lawyer in IL supports injured bicycle riders as they seek compensation for legal damages. This city, which sits just west of Chicago, has a healthy biking culture with numerous advocacy groups.
Currently, there are few protected bike lanes in the city, but there are plans to add more bike lanes to encourage cycling. Off-street trails are highlights in Elgin, especially the Fox River Trail.
When motor vehicle drivers and bike riders are in close proximity, accidents can happen. Busy intersections, inadequate bike lanes, and negligent drivers are the most common risks that can cause bicycle crashes.
If you are hurt in a bike accident due to someone else’s negligence, you could seek compensation for legal damages. Some damages may include medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers can help you build a strong case and increase your chances of earning fair compensation.
We offer a free legal consultation so you can speak with an Elgin bicycle accident lawyer before making a decision.
Recent Bike Accident Settlements
Our law firm has plenty of experience helping bike crash victims recover compensation. Here are some settlements we have secured for past clients.
- $1 million for a woman who tore her rotator cuff because of a dooring accident
- $499,000 for a bike messenger struck by a vehicle exiting a parking garage
- $2.25 million for a woman who suffered a head injury when she was struck on her way to work
How Common Are Bicycle Accidents in Elgin?
Bicycle crashes are not nearly as common as other motor vehicle accidents, but cyclists’ vulnerability makes them even more dangerous. Only 20 accidents involved bicyclists in 2023, compared to 2,148 total accidents in Elgin. In nearby Chicago, 1,410 bike crashes were reported, compared to 101,023 total motor vehicle accidents during the same period.
Certain areas in Elgin are unsafe for bikers. High-traffic roads such as Randall Road, Route 31, and Dundee Avenue are always concerning. The city has some safer zones for bikers, especially off-street trails like the Fox River Trail.
However, there are few dedicated bike lanes and a lack of connectivity between safe trails. Due to this, you must share the road with other motorists, which can increase the risk of a bicycle accident and severe injuries.
Bicycle Laws in Elgin & Illinois
Elgin’s municipal code regarding bicycles follows state ordinances from 625 ILCS 5/11. These ordinances state that all bicycle riders must obey the same traffic laws as motorists and have the same rights to use the roads as drivers.
Locally, there are a few additional regulations. Municipal code 11.44.020 states that anyone living within the city limits must register their bicycle with the chief of police. Unregistered bikes found on streets, public ways, or public properties can be impounded.
Statute of Limitations for Bike Accident Claims in Elgin
Under 735 ILCS 5/13-202, the Illinois bicycle accident statute of limitations states that you have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim. If you are filing a claim for property damage losses only, you have five years. If your personal injury case involves a government entity, such as unsafe road conditions, there may be a shorter deadline.
Your Elgin personal injury attorney can help you determine the deadline that applies to your case.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Elgin
Numerous factors may contribute to your bicycle accident. Motorists often cause these collisions by failing to yield, opening car doors into bike lanes, running red lights, or not looking before making turns.
Hazardous road conditions, like potholes, debris, poor lighting, and inadequate bike lanes, can create bicycle accident victims as well. Even on off-street trails or sidewalks, pedestrians can cause accidents involving bicyclists.
Typical Injuries in Elgin Bicycle Accidents
The outcome of a bicycle accident could be serious injuries for the cyclists. Here are some of the most common bicycle accident injuries:
- Head injuries – Concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones – Fractured arms, legs, collarbones, and wrists
- Spinal cord injuries – Herniated discs, paralysis, fractured vertebrae, and chronic pain
- Soft tissue injuries – Road rash, muscle tears, and ligament damage
- Internal injuries – Organ damage and internal bleeding
Liability in an Elgin Cyclist Injury Case
Your bicycle accident claim will depend on your ability to prove liability. An experienced bicycle accident attorney will make this task much easier. Potential liable parties in your personal injury claim include:
- Motorists – Failure to yield, distracted driving, impaired driving, speeding
- Local government – Potholes, road debris, lack of bike lanes
- Bike manufacturers – Defective parts, poor installation
Types of Compensation Available for Injured Cyclists in Elgin
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses for emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, or ongoing treatment
- Lost wages due to missed work
- Property damage to repair or replace your bike
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering from physical and emotional distress
- Mental trauma, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD
- Loss of enjoyment of life for catastrophic injuries affecting your lifestyle
Wrongful Death Compensation
- Funeral costs and burial expenses for surviving family members
- Loss of financial support for a spouse and dependents
Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident in Elgin, IL
Following the proper procedures after the crash will prioritize your health and legal options. Here are the steps you should follow in the immediate aftermath of a bike crash.
- Call 911 to report the crash and have a police report created.
- Gather evidence, such as photos, witness statements, and injury documentation.
- Seek medical attention, for minor and serious injuries, and keep all medical records.
- Do not speak to insurance adjusters.
- Consult an Elgin bicycle accident attorney.
Will My Bicycle Accident Case Go to Trial?
Most bicycle accident cases are settled before a civil trial is necessary. However, you could end up in civil court if the insurance company denies liability, the financial compensation offer is too low, or the case involves severe injuries or a fatality.
Our team is prepared to negotiate aggressively or take your case to court to secure financial compensation.
Consult an Elgin Bicycle Accident Lawyer Near You!
Whether you have suffered from traumatic brain injuries, internal injuries, lost wages, or high medical bills, an Elgin bicycle accident attorney is ready to fight for your rights.
At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you owe nothing unless we recover compensation on your behalf. Our team is ready to assist you 24/7 with whatever legal guidance is necessary.
Schedule a free consultation with experienced bicycle accident lawyers today by calling 888-424-5757 or completing the online form.
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Mr. Rosenfeld and every last one of his associates did an incredible job helping me out with my case. They explained the process thoroughly and made sure I was helped through every step. Very professional and I got a good settlement, strongly recommend Rosenfeld!
All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.