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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
Hit-and-run Bicycle Accidents
Fighting for Cyclists Injured in Hit-and-Run Motor Vehicle Accidents
A Chicago hit-and-run bicycle accident attorney understands the severe impact these incidents have on cyclists, often resulting in serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about financial recovery. Even if the at-fault driver leaves the scene, injured bicyclists may still have legal options to recover compensation.
With a strong history of fighting for injured cyclists, our Chicago bicycle accident attorney team has recovered millions in bicycle accident settlements, including:
- $2,250,000 – A commuter suffered a head injury after being struck while riding to work. The settlement was paid through her uninsured motorist coverage.
- $105,000 – A vehicle attempting to pass an amateur triathlete on a morning ride struck her, causing her to be thrown from her bike.
- $250,000 – A businessman and bicycle shop manager injured in a hit-and-run crash recovered compensation through his own uninsured motorist coverage.
Statistics for Hit-and-Run Accidents Involving Cyclists in Chicago
The Chicago Regional Crash Report highlights the dangers of hit-and-run crashes for bicyclists and pedestrians. According to the data, drivers fled the scene in 26% of all crashes involving pedestrians and bicyclists. In 2017 alone, there were 423 hit-and-run bicycle crashes across Cook County, 334 of which occurred in the City of Chicago.
The Chicago Department of Transportation statistics show a concerning trend in bicycle accidents. In 2022, 1,246 bicyclists were injured or killed, an increase from 1,139 in 2021.
These numbers show how often drivers leave injured bicyclists without help, making it critical for victims to file an accident report and seek compensation.
Your Legal Rights After a Hit-and-Run
If you have been injured in a hit-and-run bike accident, you have legal rights under Illinois law. Whether the driver is identified or not, victims may be able to recover compensation through legal action.
The Legal Duty to Stop, Render Aid, and Exchange Information
Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/11-401) requires any driver involved in an accident causing injury or death to stop at the crash scene immediately. The driver must provide their name, address, and insurance information and, if necessary, offer reasonable aid, such as calling for medical assistance.
Leaving the scene of the accident without fulfilling these duties is illegal and can lead to serious criminal charges.
Criminal Penalties for Hit-and-Run in Illinois
Illinois imposes strict penalties on hit-and-run drivers. If a hit-and-run accident causes injury, the driver can face a Class 4 felony, punishable by up to three years in prison and fines up to $25,000.
If the collision results in death, the charge increases to a Class 2 felony, with three to 14 years in prison. These penalties exist to deter hit-and-run crashes and hold drivers accountable for their actions.
Civil Liability for Hit-and-Run Accidents
Even if the driver is never found, injured bicyclists still have legal options. Many insurance policies include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which applies when the vehicle involved cannot be identified. Additionally, if the driver is later identified, they can be held financially responsible through a personal injury lawsuit.
Reporting a Hit-and-Run
Filing a police report is critical after a hit-and-run bike accident. The police will investigate the crash scene, review traffic camera footage, and interview witnesses to identify the driver. Even if the driver is not caught, a report is essential documentation for insurance claims.
What to Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run Bicycle Accident
If you are involved in a hit-and-run bicycle accident, taking the proper steps can protect your health and legal rights.
- Your safety should be a priority. If you can move, get off the road to avoid further injury. If you are seriously hurt, stay still and wait for help.
- Call 911. Report the accident and request emergency assistance. Tell the dispatcher that you were hit by a driver who fled the scene. When police arrive, provide details about the accident scene and your injuries.
- Try to remember any details about the vehicle or driver. Note the car’s make, model, color, license plate (even partial numbers), and anything about the driver or the vehicle involved.
- Look for witnesses and get their contact information. Witnesses can help confirm what happened and support your accident report and insurance claim.
- Document the scene. Take photos and videos. Capture your bike, injuries, property damage, and any debris left behind.
- Seek medical attention, even if you feel okay. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent. A medical report can also support your case.
- Do not admit fault. Avoid making statements that could be used against you when you seek compensation for your resulting injuries.
Investigating a Hit-and-Run Bicycle Accident
Identifying a driver who fled the scene can be difficult, but a thorough investigation can increase the chances of finding the person responsible. Law enforcement, legal teams, and even the public can play a role in gathering evidence.
- The Police Investigation: After filing a police report, officers will examine the crash scene, interview witnesses, and review traffic and surveillance camera footage. If there are tire marks or vehicle debris, investigators may use this information to track down the motor vehicle that caused the bike accident.
- Gathering Evidence Beyond the Accident Report: Victims and their attorneys can also collect key evidence, such as photos, video footage, and witness statements, to strengthen the case. Businesses or homes near the collision may have security cameras that capture the accident.
- Working with Private Investigators: If police efforts stall, an accident attorney may hire a private investigator to use databases and forensic analysis to track down the driver.
- Using Social Media and Public Appeals to Seek Information: Posting details about the crash online may encourage witnesses or bystanders to come forward.
- Accident Reconstruction: Experts can analyze the accident scene, damage patterns, and bicycle crash mechanics to determine how the collision occurred and identify the responsible driver.
Potential Compensation You Can Recover for a Hit-and-Run Accident in Chicago
Victims of bicycle accidents may be entitled to compensation for their injuries. If the hit-and-run driver is identified, they can be held responsible for:
- Medical expenses, including emergency care, hospitalization, and rehabilitation;
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity if the victim is unable to work during recovery;
- Property damage to the bike, gear, and other belongings;
- Pain and suffering from physical and emotional trauma;
- Wrongful death damages if the collision results in a fatality.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage in Illinois
If the driver is never found, injured bicyclists can file a claim through uninsured motorist (UM) coverage to recover the above damages. Insurance companies often try to limit payouts, so working with an accident attorney can help ensure victims receive the full compensation they deserve.
Why You Need a Chicago Hit-and-Run Bike Accident Lawyer
After a hit-and-run bicycle accident, recovering compensation can be challenging, especially if the driver is never caught. A skilled accident attorney can help victims explore all legal options, whether through a civil claim against the driver (if identified) or an uninsured motorist (UM) claim with their insurance company.
Insurers often try to minimize payouts, disputing the extent of injuries or delaying settlements. An experienced lawyer can negotiate aggressively to ensure victims receive fair compensation for medical treatment, reduced earning capacity, and pain and suffering. If an insurer refuses a reasonable settlement, an attorney can take the case to court.
Attorneys also play a key role in investigating the scene of the accident, gathering witness statements, securing surveillance footage, and working with accident reconstruction experts. If the driver is identified, legal action can hold them financially responsible and accountable for their negligence.
Without legal guidance, victims risk settling for less than they deserve or struggling to prove their cases. A Chicago hit-and-run accident attorney can protect their rights, handle all legal aspects, and fight for the maximum compensation available.
Statute of Limitations for Hit-and-Run Bicycle Accidents
In Illinois, victims of bicycle accidents typically have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. (735 ILCS 5/13-202)
If the accident results in death, the victim’s family has two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. (740 ILCS 180/) However, the deadline may be extended if the hit-and-run driver is identified later.
For property damage claims, the statute of limitations is five years. (735 ILCS 5/13-205)
Waiting too long can result in losing the right to compensation, so it is essential to act quickly and consult an accident attorney to protect your legal rights.
Consult a Chicago Hit-and-Run Bike Accident Lawyer Near You!
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run bike accident, you don’t have to handle the legal process alone. At our law firm, we understand the challenges victims face after a hit-and-run crash and are committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve.
Whether you need to file an insurance claim or explore other legal options, our Illinois bike crash lawyer team is ready to fight for your rights. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
