Chicago Blind Spot Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Helping Cyclists Injured in Blind Spot Crashes in Chicago

Chicago blind spot bicycle accident lawyers from Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers understand the severe injuries cyclists can suffer when drivers fail to check their blind spots.

These accidents often result in costly medical expenses and long recovery periods. Injured bicyclists may be entitled to compensation, and we can help them pursue the financial recovery they deserve, as we’ve done for many other clients.

• $199,000 for a child injured when a vehicle backing out of a driveway struck him in his neighborhood.
• $350,000 for a cyclist who suffered injuries in a hit-and-run crash.
• $499,000 for a bike messenger struck by a vehicle exiting a parking garage in Chicago.

What are Blind Spot Accidents?

A blind spot bicycle accident occurs when a driver fails to see a cyclist in their blind spot, leading to a bicycle crash. Blind spots exist on the sides and rear of motor vehicles, making bike accidents more likely when drivers change lanes, turn, or merge without checking carefully.

Since bicycles are smaller than cars, they can easily go unnoticed, especially in bike lanes or intersections. These accidents often result in serious injuries.

Vehicle Blind Spots and Driver Responsibility

Blind spots are areas around a motor vehicle that the driver cannot see directly through mirrors. These hidden zones create significant risks for cyclists, especially in bike lanes or intersections. Drivers are responsible for checking their blind spots before changing lanes, turning, or merging to prevent bicycle crashes.

Blind Spots on Cars vs. Trucks vs. Buses

Blind spots vary by vehicle type. Cars have blind spots along the rear sides, making it easy to miss cyclists when turning. Trucks and buses have much larger blind spots, especially along the right side and behind the vehicle. These vehicles require extra caution, as bicycle accidents are more likely.

The Driver’s Duty to Check Blind Spots Before Changing Lanes, Turning, or Merging

Under Illinois law, drivers must ensure their path is clear before maneuvering. Failing to check blind spots is considered negligence in personal injury cases. A driver who merges into a cyclist or turns without looking can be held liable for their injuries.

Proper Mirror Use and Adjustment

Adequately adjusted mirrors help minimize blind spots but do not eliminate them. Drivers must physically turn their heads to check for injured bicyclists before moving. Relying only on mirrors increases the risk of a bicycle crash, especially when cyclists ride alongside vehicles.

Common Types of Blind Spot Bicycle Accidents in Chicago

Blind spot accidents happen when drivers fail to see cyclists turning or changing lanes. Some of the most common bicycle accident cases include:

• Right-turn accidents (“right hook”) – A driver turns right without checking for a cyclist in the bike lane, cutting them off and causing a bicycle crash.
• Left-turn accidents (“left cross”) – A driver turning left at an intersection doesn’t see an oncoming cyclist, causing a collision.
• Lane change accidents (sideswipes) – A driver merges into a bike lane, hitting a cyclist.
• Merging accidents – A driver entering traffic from a driveway or parking lot fails to check their blind spot, striking a cyclist.

Illinois Law and Blind Spot Accidents

Illinois law holds drivers responsible for ensuring the safety of others on the road, including Chicago cyclists. When a driver fails to check their blind spot and causes an accident, they may be liable under personal injury law for any resulting injuries and damages.

The Duty to Maintain a Proper Lookout

Under 625 ILCS 5/, drivers must look for other vehicles, including bicycles. This means checking blind spots before turning, merging, or changing lanes. Failing to do so can be considered negligence, making the driver responsible for bicycle accidents caused by their inattention.

Laws Regarding Lane Changes and Turns

The Illinois Vehicle Code requires drivers to signal lane changes and turns in advance and ensure the maneuver is safe. 625 ILCS 5/11-709 prohibits unsafe lane changes, while 625 ILCS 5/11-902 requires drivers to yield to bicycles before turning left. Violating these laws can establish fault in a lawsuit.

Proving Negligence in a Blind Spot Accident Case

To prove negligence in a blind spot bicycle crash, a personal injury lawyer will gather evidence showing that the driver failed to check their blind spot or yield the right of way. Police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and expert testimony can help establish liability and hold the driver financially responsible.

Chicago Bicycle Laws

Chicago has additional protections for cyclists. Chicago Municipal Code 9-16-020 requires drivers to yield when turning across a bike lane. Chicago Municipal Code 9-40-160 makes opening a car door into a cyclist’s path illegal. Violating these laws can strengthen a cyclist’s claim.

What to Do Immediately After a Blind Spot Bicycle Crash

Taking the proper steps after a bike crash can protect your health and legal rights.

• Check for injuries and move to a safe location.
• Report the accident to the police and request medical assistance.
• Collect the driver’s details, motor vehicle information, and witness contacts if you can.
• Take photos of the crash, bike lanes, injuries, and vehicle damage.
• Even if injuries seem minor, conditions like internal injuries can worsen.
• Do not admit fault.
• Consult a Chicago bike accident attorney.

Investigating a Blind Spot Bicycle Accident Claim

A thorough investigation is essential to proving fault in a lawsuit. An experienced attorney will gather evidence to show how the driver’s failure to check their blind spot caused the crash, such as:

• Obtaining the police report
• Interviewing witnesses
• Analyzing the accident scene and vehicle damage
• Working with accident reconstruction experts

Potential Compensation for Injuries in a Blind Spot Accident

Injured bicyclists may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages after a bicycle crash, such as:

• Medical bills;
• Pain and suffering;
• Lost wages;
• Emotional distress;
• Reduced quality of life.

Cyclists who suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, or internal injuries may be eligible for higher compensation.

Consult a Chicago Blind Spot Bicycle Accident Attorney Near You!

If you were injured in a blind spot bicycle accident, Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers is here to help. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling bike accident cases and fighting for injured cyclists’ rights.

Our Chicago personal injury law firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Call us at (888) 424–5757 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation.

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.