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Injured in a bicycle accident? Our experienced attorneys are ready to fight for your rights.
Bicycle Cases We Handle
- Dooring Accidents
- Right Hook Accidents
- Left Hook Accidents
- Sideswipe Accidents
- Crosswalk Accidents
- Road Rage Incidents
- Hit and Run Incidents
- E-Bike Crashes
- E-Scooter Crashes
- Bus Collisions
- Truck Collisions
- Rideshare Collisions
- Taxi Collisions
- Failure to Stop Accidents
- Underinsured Motorist Collisions
- Product Liability Claims
- Delivery Worker Accidents
- Messenger Accidents
- Bike Share Incidents
Failure-to-Stop Bicycle Accidents
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 serious injuries, leaving them with medical expenses, lost income, and property damage. Our Chicago bicycle accident attorney team has a strong track record of recovering millions in bicycle crash settlements, including:
- $760,000 – A cyclist stopped at a traffic light was rear-ended by a driver who later blamed poor lighting for the crash.
- $350,000 – A hit-and-run driver struck a cyclist, leading to a settlement paid through the cyclist’s own auto insurance policy.
- $250,000 – A cyclist suffered a knee injury requiring arthroscopic surgery after a driver failed to yield on a busy city street during rush hour.
Common Scenarios for Failure to Stop Accidents
Failure to stop bike accidents often occurs when drivers disregard traffic rules, putting injured cyclists at risk. Common scenarios include:
- Drivers running red lights at intersections – A driver who ignores a red light may collide with a cyclist legally crossing with traffic signals.
- Drivers rolling through stop signs – Instead of making a complete stop, some drivers slow down but fail to yield the right of way to cyclists.
- Drivers failing to stop at uncontrolled intersections – Without traffic lights or stop signs, drivers may misjudge oncoming traffic and hit a cyclist.
- Drivers failing to stop at crosswalks – Cyclists crossing at designated areas are at risk when drivers do not obey right-of-way laws.
Chicago-Specific Accident Data
Failure to stop bike accidents is a significant cause of injuries in Chicago. According to the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) Crash Analysis Report, 38% of fatal bicycle crashes occur at intersections, where drivers often fail to obey traffic signals, stop signs, or right-of-way laws.
The report also found that failure to yield was a leading factor in collisions involving injured cyclists, particularly when drivers turned left into oncoming traffic or rolled through red lights. These statistics highlight the dangers cyclists face due to traffic violations.
Illinois and Chicago Laws on Stop Signs and Red Lights
Illinois and Chicago have strict traffic laws requiring all drivers to obey traffic signals and stop signs to protect injured cyclists and pedestrians.
- The Illinois Vehicle Code (§ 625 ILCS 5/11-305) requires drivers to obey all traffic control devices, including red lights, stop signs, and lane markings.
- Chicago Municipal Code (§ 9-24-010) reinforces these rules, requiring a complete stop at traffic lights and intersections.
- Right-of-way laws (§ 625 ILCS 5/11-902 & § 625 ILCS 5/11-904) require drivers to yield to oncoming traffic and bicycles before making a left turn or proceeding from a stop.
Common Injuries in Failure to Stop Bicycle Accidents
When drivers ignore traffic signals and stop signs, injured cyclists often suffer serious injuries due to the impact of a car or the pavement. Common injuries include:
- Head injuries – Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur, even if the cyclist wears a helmet.
- Spinal injuries – Damage to the spine may cause chronic pain, limited mobility, or paralysis.
- Broken bones – Fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or collarbone are common in bicycle accidents.
- Internal injuries – Blunt force trauma can lead to organ damage or internal bleeding, which may require emergency medical care.
Establishing Liability in a Failure to Stop Bicycle Accident Case
Failing to stop at a red light or stop sign is a clear violation of traffic laws and a breach of a driver’s duty to exercise reasonable care. When drivers disregard traffic signals, they can be held liable for the bicycle accident and the resulting medical expenses.
Evidence used to establish liability includes:
- Police reports – Official documentation of the car accident, including citations for traffic violations.
- Witness testimony – Statements from bystanders who saw the collision.
- Traffic camera footage – Video evidence showing the driver running a red light or stop sign.
- Accident reconstruction expert testimony – Analysis of the crash scene to determine fault.
Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident Caused by a Driver Failing to Stop
Taking the proper steps after a bicycle accident can help protect your health and legal rights:
- Prioritize safety and seek medical attention – Get to a safe location and seek medical care, even if injuries seem minor.
- Call 911 and report the accident – A police report documents the crash and the driver’s traffic violations.
- Document the accident scene – Take photos and videos of the crash site, traffic signals, and damage to your bike. Gather witness contact information.
- Preserve evidence – Keep your bicycle, helmet, and clothing in their post-accident condition.
- Keep detailed records – Save medical bills, lost wage documentation, and other expenses.
- Do not admit fault or speak with insurance companies without legal advice – Consult an experienced personal injury attorney before providing statements.
Compensation You May Be Entitled to After a Failure to Stop Bicycle Accident
Injured cyclists may be eligible for compensation covering both economic and non-economic damages.
- Economic damages – Include medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and bicycle repairs or replacement.
- Non-economic damages – Compensation may be available for pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and permanent disability or disfigurement.
Statute of Limitations for Failure to Stop Bicycle Accident Claims in Illinois
In Illinois, injured cyclists generally have two years from the date of the bicycle accident to file a personal injury claim (§ 735 ILCS 5/13-202). Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation. Consulting an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible can help protect your rights and ensure your case is filed on time.
Why You Need an Experienced Chicago Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney can significantly impact your bicycle accident case. Proving driver negligence in failure to stop bike accidents requires strong evidence, such as traffic signals, witness statements, and accident reconstruction.
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, making legal representation essential when negotiating for fair compensation. A lawyer ensures you receive the full amount for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Throughout the legal process, an attorney protects your rights, handles paperwork, and fights to hold the negligent driver accountable for their traffic violations.
Consult a Chicago Bicycle Accident Attorney Near You!
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bike accident caused by a failure to stop, our law firm is here to help. We understand the challenges injured cyclists face and are committed to securing the compensation they deserve.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Contact us for a free consultation. Let an experienced personal injury attorney handle the legal process while you focus on recovery.
