Chicago Bicyclist Hit by a Car That Failed to Stop

Award-Winning Law Firm for Cyclists Hit by Drivers Who Didn’t Stop

A Chicago bicyclist hit by a car that failed to stop can suffer life-threatening injuries and overwhelming financial burdens. Whether the bicycle crash occurred at a stop sign, red light, or intersection, victims have legal rights and may be entitled to compensation.

The team at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers is here to defend those victims’ rights. Some of our bicycle accident injury settlements include:

• $2,250,000 – Policy Limit Settlement for Commuter Bicycle Accident
• $1,000,000 – Bicycle Dooring Injury Settlement
• $760,000 – Settlement for Cyclist Hit at an Intersection
• $605,000 – Crosswalk Bicycle Accident Settlement
• $510,000 – Left-Turn Bicycle Collision Settlement
• $499,000 – Bicycle Messenger Accident Lawsuit Settlement

Illinois Laws on Drivers Who Fail to Stop

Illinois traffic laws require drivers to come to a full stop at stop signs, red lights, and pedestrian crosswalks. When a driver fails to stop and causes an accident, they may face legal consequences, including traffic citations, fines, and liability for injuries.

• Obedience to Traffic Control Devices – Under 625 ILCS 5/11-305, drivers must obey all official traffic control devices, such as stop signs and traffic signals. Disobeying these devices is considered a petty offense, punishable by fines and potential points on the driver’s record.
• Failure to Stop at Stop Signs – As specified in 625 ILCS 5/11-1204, drivers are required to stop at stop signs before entering intersections. Violating this statute is a petty offense, subject to fines and possible driver’s license points. ​
• Running Red Lights – According to 625 ILCS 5/11-306, drivers must stop at red traffic signals and remain stopped until an indication to proceed is shown. Failure to comply is a petty offense, with penalties including fines and potential points on the driver’s license.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident Caused by a Driver Who Failed to Stop

If you are a Chicago bicyclist hit by a car that failed to stop, taking the proper steps can protect your health and legal rights.

• Prioritize your safety. Move to a safe location to avoid further harm.
• Call 911. Report the accident to Chicago police and request medical assistance. Police said that reporting quickly helps in the investigation.
• Try to gather information about the vehicle and driver. Note the car involved, color, make, model, street location, and any license plate details.
• Look for witnesses. Ask for their contact information, as their statements can help authorities.
• Document the scene. Take photos of the intersection, bike lane, traffic signs, and any damage. If there’s surveillance video nearby, inform the police.
• Seek medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor, head trauma or internal injuries may not be immediately noticeable.

Investigating a Bike Crash Involving a Driver Who Failed to Stop

Authorities and legal teams use several methods to prove fault.

• The police investigation – Chicago police will collect witness statements, check for surveillance video, and review traffic cameras near the scene. They may also issue public alerts for further information.
• Gathering evidence – A bicycle accident attorney can help collect additional witness statements, footage from nearby businesses, and phone records.
• Working with accident reconstruction experts – Experts analyze skid marks, damage patterns, and debris to determine how the crash happened.
• Using social media and public appeals – Posting details about the collision can help identify the vehicle or driver.
• Private investigator – If authorities struggle to locate the driver, hiring a private investigator can improve the chances of finding the person involved.

Insurance Coverage for Cyclists Injured by a Driver Who Failed to Stop

If a Chicago bicyclist is hit by a car that failed to stop, they may still recover compensation, even if the driver is never found.

• Uninsured motorist (UM) insurance – Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/7-601) mandates Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UM) coverage with minimum limits of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.
• Health insurance – Personal health insurance may cover hospital stays and treatment after the bicycle crash.
• Other policies – Some home or renter’s insurance policies may provide limited coverage for bicycle accidents.

Potential Compensation in Bike Crash Cases

A Chicago bicyclist hit by a car that failed to stop may be entitled to compensation for various losses. Damages may include:

• Medical expenses – Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
• Lost wages and future earnings – Compensation for time missed at work and reduced earning capacity due to injuries.
• Pain and suffering – Payment for physical pain, emotional distress, and long-term trauma.
• Property damage – Costs to repair or replace a bike and other belongings damaged in the crash.
• Wrongful death damages – If a bicyclist is killed, surviving family members may recover compensation for funeral costs and loss of support.

Why You Need an Experienced Attorney

If you are a Chicago bicyclist hit by a car that failed to stop, hiring a lawyer can help you secure compensation and protect your rights. An experienced bicycle accident attorney can assist with:

• Investigating the accident and identifying potential sources of compensation – Lawyers work with police, gather surveillance video, and consult experts to locate the driver or find other avenues for recovery, such as uninsured motorist coverage.
• Dealing with insurance companies on your behalf – Insurance adjusters often try to reduce payouts. A lawyer negotiates for fair compensation and prevents insurers from undervaluing claims.
• Maximizing your compensation – An attorney ensures you receive full coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim or Lawsuit in Illinois?

Per 735 ILCS 5/13-202 in Illinois, bicycle accident victims generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. The deadline may be shorter if the case involves a government entity, such as dangerous road conditions.

Consult a Chicago Bicycle Accident Lawyer Near You!

If you or a loved one was a Chicago bicyclist hit by a car that failed to stop, you deserve justice and fair compensation.

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, our legal team fights for injured cyclists to recover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Even if the driver is not found, we can help explore other compensation options, including uninsured motorist coverage.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.