Chicago Bike-Taxi Collision Lawyers

We Help Cyclists Injured By Taxis in Chicago

With thousands of taxis operating on Chicago’s streets, bicyclists face serious risks. The combination of competitive pressure and driver negligence often leads to taxi cabs hitting Chicago cyclists and causing severe injuries.

Understanding how liability works when a taxi strikes a bicycle rider and seeking legal action can help victims secure the financial compensation they deserve. Our Chicago bicycle accident lawyers are experienced and dedicated. If you’ve been injured in such an accident, a Chicago bike-taxi collision lawyer can help guide you through the legal process to ensure you receive the justice you deserve.

Recent Settlements for Chicago Cyclists

• $250,000 Settlement – A cyclist suffered a knee injury requiring arthroscopic surgery after a taxi failed to yield on a busy Chicago street during rush hour. The at-fault driver’s insurance policy limits were tendered within 60 days.
• $200,000 Settlement – Our client was biking through an intersection when a taxi driver ran a stop sign, causing a crash that resulted in a torn meniscus. The cyclist required surgery, and we secured the maximum insurance coverage available.
• $180,000 Settlement – A 23-year-old cyclist was doored by a taxi passenger on the North Side of Chicago, causing him to flip over his handlebars and suffer a fractured clavicle and skull. The insurance company initially denied the claim due to nearby road construction, but we fought to secure a full settlement.

If you’ve been injured, reach out today for a free consultation to see what your case may be worth.

Why Taxi Drivers Pose a Danger to Bicyclists

The intense competition among taxi companies and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft pushes drivers to take risks that endanger bicyclists.

Under Illinois law, taxis are legally required to exercise caution and follow traffic rules, but violations such as speeding, reckless driving, and failure to yield frequently occur.

These factors significantly increase the likelihood of a taxi driver hitting a bicyclist.

Some common causes of bicycle accidents involving taxis include:

• Speeding to meet passenger demands
• Sudden, dangerous U-turns or lane changes
• Failure to check blind spots before turning
• Driving while distracted by GPS or passenger interactions

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, bicyclist fatalities increased by 46% from 2018 to 2023. Many of these incidents involved motor vehicles, including taxis.

Liability in Taxi-Bicycle Accidents: Holding Taxi Companies and Drivers Accountable

Bicycle accident attorneys in Chicago understand that determining liability when a bicycle is struck by a taxi can be complicated, as the taxi driver and taxi company may share responsibility.

Under Illinois’ “common carrier” doctrine, taxi companies must ensure their drivers operate safely. Any negligence—such as hiring unqualified drivers or failing to maintain vehicles—can make them legally liable.

Additionally, when other vehicles are involved, the victim may need to deal with multiple insurance companies, making legal representation essential.

Serious Injuries Associated with Taxi-Bicycle Crashes

Bike and e-bike accident victims struck by taxi cabs often suffer life-changing injuries due to the lack of protection compared to vehicle occupants. Common injuries include:

• Broken bones and fractures
• Head trauma, including concussions and brain injuries
• Nerve damage and spinal cord injuries
• Severe lacerations and soft tissue damage

The severity of injuries sustained in a taxi-involved bike accident can vary, but they often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

The recovery process can be long and expensive, so it is crucial to obtain compensation for medical expenses and related damages.

The Role of Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Securing Maximum Compensation

An experienced accident law firm can be the key to recovering damages by:

• Investigating the crash and identifying all negligent parties
• Gathering crucial evidence, such as taxi logs and surveillance footage
• Consulting with experts, including accident reconstruction specialists
• Negotiating with the taxi company and its insurance company to ensure a fair settlement in your bike accident case.

If you’ve been injured by a taxi while biking in Chicago, having a skilled Chicago bike-taxi collision lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Types of Financial Compensation Available

A taxi accident can result in substantial financial losses. Victims are entitled to pursue financial compensation for:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost wages if injuries prevent them from working
• Pain and suffering caused by physical and emotional trauma
• Loss of earning capacity for those permanently disabled

Thoroughly documenting the details of your accident will help you maximize the financial compensation you may receive. Our bicycle accident settlement calculator can give you a rough idea of what you may receive, but it’s best to speak with an attorney for the most accurate information.

Taking Legal Action Quickly is Essential

Under Illinois law 735 ILCS 5/13-202, victims generally have two years from the accident date to file a claim. However, cases involving public entities (such as city-owned taxis) may have a one-year limit per 745 ILCS 10/8-101(a).

In the case of a taxi accident, a Chicago bike accident law firm familiar with local laws can help victims navigate these deadlines.

Consult a Bicycle Accident Attorney Near You!

If you’ve been injured by a taxi while bicycling, our skilled team is ready to help you recover financial compensation. Call (888) 424-5757 or fill out our online form to book a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can fight for your rights. We are located at 225 Wacker Drive, #1660 in Chicago, Illinois 60606.

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.