Chicago Crosswalk Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Chicago Bike Crash Law Firm Advocating for Cyclists Injured on Crosswalks

The Chicago crosswalk bicycle accident lawyers at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers understand the serious injuries cyclists can suffer. Bike crashes in crosswalks often lead to costly medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Our legal team helps injured cyclists seek compensation for their damages.

Some of our bike crash compensation settlements include:

• $605,000 for a 72-year-old cyclist hit by a commercial truck while lawfully crossing in a marked crosswalk.
• $510,000 for a cyclist who sustained facial injuries and a mild traumatic brain injury after being struck by a vehicle making a left turn.
• $499,000 for a bike messenger hit by a driver exiting a parking garage in Chicago.

Common Causes of Crosswalk Bicycle Accidents

Many bike crashes in Chicago happen when motor vehicles fail to follow traffic laws, putting bike riders at risk. Common causes of bicycle and pedestrian accidents at crosswalks include:

• Drivers failing to yield the right-of-way in designated areas
• Distracted driving
• Speeding or aggressive driving
• Running red lights or stop signs
• Impaired driving
• Poor visibility

Illinois and Chicago Laws Protecting Cyclists in Crosswalks

Illinois and Chicago laws provide legal protections for bike riders using crosswalks.

• Under Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/11-1002.5), cyclists in a crosswalk have the same right-of-way as pedestrians. Drivers must stop and allow them to cross safely.
• Per 625 ILCS 5/11-1002, motor vehicles must yield to cyclists in marked bike paths, crosswalks, and intersections, ensuring a safe crossing.
• Under 625 ILCS 5/11-1002(d), when a vehicle is stopped at a crosswalk to allow a pedestrian to cross, other drivers approaching from the rear must not overtake and pass the stopped vehicle.

Determining Liability in Chicago Crosswalk Bike Crashes

Liability in a bike accident case is based on negligence, meaning a negligent driver or another party failed to act with reasonable care. Illinois law follows a comparative negligence system (735 ILCS 5/2-1116), meaning an injured cyclist can still recover compensation if they are less than 50% at fault for the accident.

Potentially liable parties include:

• Negligent drivers – Those who fail to yield, speed, or drive distracted.
• Employers of commercial drivers – If the driver was working at the time.
• The City of Chicago – If unsafe bike lanes, crosswalks, or road conditions contributed.

Steps to Take After a Bike Accident in a Chicago Crosswalk

Taking the proper steps after a bicycle crash can protect your health and legal rights:

• Prioritize safety and seek immediate medical attention
• Call 911 and report the accident to the Chicago police
• Document the accident scene
• Preserve evidence
• Keep detailed medical records
• Do not admit fault or discuss the accident with insurance companies without legal advice
• Consult an experienced bicycle crash attorney in Chicago

Filing a Lawsuit for a Crosswalk Bike Accident in Chicago

If an insurance claim does not provide fair compensation, filing a lawsuit may be necessary. The legal process includes:

• Investigating the accident and gathering evidence
• Filing a lawsuit in Illinois courts
• The discovery process involves both sides sharing evidence, conducting depositions, and working with experts to establish liability and damages
• Negotiating a settlement
• If no settlement is reached, your attorney will argue your case before a judge or jury to secure financial compensation

Compensation You May Be Entitled to After a Crosswalk Bike Crash

Bike accident victims may be eligible for various damages after a crosswalk accident.

• Economic damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, future medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and property damage.
• Non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, permanent disability, and reduced quality of life.
• Punitive damages may be awarded in cases of extreme negligence, such as reckless or impaired driving.

Statute of Limitations for Crosswalk Bike Accident Claims in Illinois

Under 735 ILCS 5/13-202, injured bicyclists in Illinois generally have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim. The deadline may be shorter if the case involves a government entity, such as unsafe bike lanes or crosswalks. An experienced bicycle accident attorney can ensure your claim is filed on time.

Consult a Chicago Crosswalk Bicycle Accident Attorney Near You!

If you were injured in a crosswalk bike crash, Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers can help. Our experienced bicycle accident attorneys help injured cyclists handle their personal injury cases in Chicago. We work 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.