Drivers must respect and protect bicyclists on the road. If you are hurt by a reckless motorist while riding your bike, you could be entitled to financial compensation. A Chicago bicycle accident lawyer could help you pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost income, emotional distress, and other losses stemming from your injuries.

Our legal team is passionate about helping our clients pursue justice. We understand what it takes to successfully negotiate or litigate a bike accident claim. If you were injured in a bicycle accident due to a negligent driver, speak with a dedicated injury attorney at Nozicka Law about your options for financial recovery.

Determining Liability for a Bicycle Collision

While no bicyclist expects to be involved in an accident, collisions happen daily. Some bicycle accidents are caused by the cyclist’s negligence. Bicyclists should always use designated bike lanes, follow traffic laws, and avoid distractions while riding. However, devastating collisions most often occur when the driver of a larger vehicle does not exercise appropriate care. Common examples of driver negligence include:

  • Driving under the influence
  • Speeding
  • Reckless driving, such as unsafe lane changes
  • Distracted driving
  • Failing to yield to bicyclists
  • Fatigued driving

Bike crashes can also occur due to defective bike parts or safety equipment. In these cases, the manufacturer or retailer who sold the bike could be liable. When accidents result from dangerous road conditions, the state or city could be liable for failing to keep the roads safe. After a crash, an injured bicyclist should consult with a Chicago attorney who could help determine who may bear civil liability.

Recovering Damages for Bike Crash Injuries

Navigating the aftermath of a bicycle crash can overwhelm survivors and their families. The burden of affording medical care can become even greater when someone’s injuries prevent them from working. Fortunately, a successful personal injury settlement or lawsuit can reimburse victims for their medical care, lost income, and other related expenses.

The compensation available after a bike accident depends on the specifics of the case, including the cause of the accident, the nature of the injuries, and the impact of these injuries on the survivor’s life going forward. Catastrophic injuries will permanently alter someone’s life, and an attorney could advocate for compensation that considers both present and future needs. When someone does not survive a bike crash, surviving family members could work with a legal professional to hold a reckless driver accountable through a wrongful death claim. A Chicago bicycle accident attorney could learn how a crash has impacted someone’s life and estimate financial damages accordingly.

A Chicago Bicycle Accident Attorney Could Help

While biking is a great way to get around the city, it comes with risks. When you or a loved one are hurt in a bike crash, call Nozicka Law to discuss filing a civil claim. Our attorneys understand how serious bicycle collisions can be and could assist with obtaining fair compensation for your injuries.

When a negligent motorist injures a cyclist, they can and should be held responsible. Contact a Chicago bicycle accident lawyer for a free consultation.