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Chicago Bicycle Safety Guide
Chicago guides on bicycle safety are an essential way to protect yourself while enjoying the city’s beautiful streets. Whether riding along Lakefront Trail or commuting to work in the Loop, you must always follow these safety tips.
If you’ve been harmed in a bicycle crash, contact a Chicago bike accident injury lawyer from our team to schedule a free consultation. We can provide cycling resources, negotiate with insurance, and ensure that you can recover compensation.
Essential Chicago Bike Safety Checks and Gear
To ride safely, you need to check your gear ahead of time. Bicyclists should follow this checklist before heading out to enjoy the Magnificent Mile or get to work.
- ABC Quick Check – Check that your tires are inflated, your brakes are working, and your chain is on.
- Bike Fit – Your seat should be comfortable, and you should be able to steer and brake effectively.
- Helmet – No Chicago law requires you to wear a helmet, but it can save your life. Make sure that it fits snugly and meets the CPSC bicycle helmet standard (§63 FR 11729).
- Lights – Chicago code §9-52-080(a) requires you to have a front white light that can be seen for up to 500 feet and a red rear light that can be seen for up to 200 feet. You should also have reflectors for daytime use.
- Clothing and Gear – Wear bright clothing for better visibility to other drivers.
- Mirrors – Bike mirrors ensure you will not be surprised by pedestrians or motorists behind you.
- Horns and Bells – Cyclists should have horns or bells that let them alert other traffic.
- Repairs – Carry a basic repair kit with tire patches, tire levers, an air pump, and a multitool.
Illinois Bicycle Laws
625 ILCS 5/11-1502 states that cyclists have all the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. This includes:
- Obeying traffic lights, stop signs, and lane markings
- Following all the rules of the road, such as yielding to pedestrians
- Riding in the same direction as other traffic
- Use bike lanes when possible, or stay in the right side of traffic
- Use hand signals: left arm for left turns, right arm for right turns, and an arm up at right angles for stop
- Always stop at traffic signals
- Never go the wrong day down streets
Cyclists can use some sidewalks in Chicago, but according to §9-52-021, this does not apply to North Sheridan Road. You also cannot ride on Lake Shore Drive.
Safe Cycling Techniques and Strategies in Chicago
With so many people walking and driving in Chicago, it can be challenging to ride your bike safely, but these safety tips can ensure that you stay accident-free.
Be Visible and Predictable – Wear bright clothing and signal.
Anticipate Hazards – Watch for parked cars, pedestrians, and cars turning out of parking lots. Walk your bike when you cross railroad tracks.
Take the Lane – Stay in the center of the bike lane.
Navigate Intersections Carefully – You may choose to walk your bike through intersections. Watch for turning cars.
Avoid the Door Zone – Stay at least three feet from parked vehicles and check if there are occupants.
Be Assertive – Make eye contact with drivers. Stay away from cars acting unpredictably.
Check Road Conditions – Bike carefully in wet or slick weather. Use your lights at night.
Common Types of Bicycle Accidents in Chicago and How to Avoid Them
Dooring – This is when a car opens its door in your lane of travel. Stay alert and watch for car occupants.
Intersections – Walk your bike at intersections whenever possible.
Road Hazards like Potholes – Stay alert to road conditions and slow down when you see hazards.
Rear-End Crashes – Signal your intent well before you turn or stop.
Wrong-Way Crashes – Stay in the right lane, away from the median.
Speeding – Be alert to drivers near you and wear visible clothing.
Low Visibility – Always make sure your bike lights are charged before heading out.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Chicago
You must act quickly after a bicycle accident to protect your rights. Follow these steps:
- Check for any injuries
- Move to safety
- Call 911 and ask for medical assistance
- Get the driver’s contact information
- Take photos and videos of the scene
- Seek medical help
- Contact a Chicago bicycle accident attorney
Chicago Bicycle Safety Resources
These additional resources can help you protect your rights and learn more about bicycle safety.
Chicago Department of Transportation Bikeways Program
Active Transportation Alliance
Illinois Department of Transportation Bicycle Safety
In addition to these resources, check with your local bike shop to see if they have safety programs. Advocacy groups like Better Streets Chicago and Chicago Bike PAC can also help you learn more about bicycle safety.
We Are Your Partner in Bicycle Safety and Legal Advocacy
If you’ve been injured in a bike crash, you deserve compensation. Our Illinois bike accident law firm is proud to assist cyclists in getting high-quality legal representation after a bicycle accident. We have recovered millions for our clients and have a 98% success rate, demonstrating our commitment to helping clients heal.
