Bicycling is a popular way to get around Aurora, whether you ride for transportation, exercise, or recreation. However, cyclists can face greater risks when traveling near cars, trucks, and other vehicles. A sudden turn, careless driver, or unexpected road hazard can cause a serious collision.
After a bicycle accident, you may have to deal with injuries, medical treatment, time away from work, or a damaged bicycle. An Aurora, IL bicycle accident lawyer can examine the circumstances of the crash and help you understand whether you may have grounds for a legal claim.
Why Do Bicycle Accidents Happen?
There is no single cause of every bicycle accident. Some crashes happen when motorists do not see cyclists, turn across their path, or pass too closely.
Other situations can include distracted driving, failure to yield, unsafe lane changes, speeding, poor road conditions, or objects blocking the cyclist’s route. A bicycle crash can also happen because of a problem with the bicycle itself.
Finding out exactly what happened can be important when pursuing a claim. Photos from the scene, witness accounts, police reports, video footage, and medical records may provide useful details about the accident.
What Should You Do After a Bicycle Accident?
Your health should come first after a bicycle crash. If you are injured, get appropriate medical attention and follow the advice given by your healthcare provider. Some injuries may not cause strong symptoms immediately.
When you are able to do so safely, take pictures of the crash scene, your bicycle, the vehicle involved, the road, and any visible injuries. Write down information you remember about the accident while the details are still fresh.
You should also keep documents related to medical care, bicycle repairs, missed work, and insurance communications. These records may become useful when reviewing the losses connected to the accident.
Who May Be Responsible for a Bicycle Crash?
Determining responsibility requires looking at the circumstances of the individual accident. A motorist may be liable when their actions contributed to the collision, but a claim can sometimes involve other factors as well.
For example, dangerous roadway conditions, a defective bicycle component, or another party’s conduct may have played a role in the accident.
Illinois uses comparative fault rules when determining how responsibility affects compensation. If an injured person is partly responsible for an accident, the amount they may recover can be reduced based on their share of fault. (Illinois General Assembly)
What Injuries Can Result From a Bicycle Accident?
A cyclist does not have the same protection as someone inside a passenger vehicle. As a result, even a single impact can cause significant physical harm.
Bicycle accident injuries may include broken or fractured bones, cuts and road rash, head injuries, back or spinal injuries, nerve damage, and other forms of trauma.
Recovery may involve doctor visits, medication, physical therapy, or other treatment. Serious injuries can also interfere with work, household responsibilities, hobbies, and other parts of everyday life. Keeping track of treatment and related expenses can help document these effects.
What Losses Can Be Included in a Bicycle Accident Claim?
The losses connected to a bicycle accident will depend on the circumstances and extent of the injuries. A claim may involve costs such as medical treatment, lost wages, bicycle or property damage, and pain and suffering.
Each bicycle accident case may have a different filing deadline. Factors such as the injuries involved, available evidence, insurance coverage, and each party’s responsibility can affect how a claim is evaluated.
Attorney Adam Jacobson works with individuals who have been injured in accidents. He can review the available information, discuss the circumstances of the bicycle crash, and help clients understand the legal issues that may affect their claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do after a bicycle accident in Aurora, IL?
What happens if a car hits me while I am riding a bicycle?
Can I make a claim if I was partly responsible for the crash?
How long do I have to bring a bicycle accident claim in Illinois?
What information can support a bicycle accident claim?
Can I receive compensation after a bicycle accident?
Discuss Your Bicycle Accident Claim
A bicycle accident can affect much more than your ride. Medical costs, time away from work, bicycle repairs, and other problems can add up after a crash.
If you were hurt in a bicycle accident, an Aurora, IL Bicycle Accident Lawyer can review the circumstances with you and explain the legal issues involved. Jacobson Injury Firm is available to talk with you about your bicycle accident and the legal choices you may have.
