Bicycle accidents are more common than many people realize, and some of these accidents can have fatal consequences. A bicyclist may be struck by a vehicle, or riders may lose their life trying to ride over poorly maintained roads and bicycle paths. If the accident resulted in death, the victim's family may file a wrongful death claim against the alleged offenders. 

Who Is Liable In a Fatal Bicycle Accident In Illinois?

After a fatal bicycle accident, a full investigation can be opened to identify the at-fault party or parties. Representatives of the deceased bicyclist's estate or an immediate relative must prove that someone other than the bicyclist was at fault for the accident and their death. Specifically, a person will need to demonstrate that the other party was negligent by proving the following:

• They owed a duty of care to the bicyclist - Under Illinois law, all motorists have the duty to ensure that other people, including those on bikes, are protected from harm. That is, they must take the proper measures to always drive in a safe and responsible manner.

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With winter on its way out, bicyclists are starting to ride again throughout the greater Chicago area. Bicycling can be a good form of exercise and way to commute to and from work. Unfortunately, bicyclists are much more susceptible to serious injury than car occupants. Around 467,000 Americans are injured in bicycle accidents each year. The most severe bicycle injuries occur in collisions involving cars. If you or a loved one are injured in a bicycle accident due to driver negligence, contact a trusted personal injury legal team as soon as possible. 

How to Prevent Bike Accidents 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 1,000 Americans were fatally injured in bicycle crashes during a recent 12-month study. While many bicycle accidents are unpreventable because of car driver error or damaged pavement, there are a few steps you can take to increase your safety, as you hop back onto your bike this spring. 

Recently, a man was killed in Chicago’s West Humboldt neighborhood in a hit and run accident. The man was found fatally injured with his bicycle was lying next to him. A witness to the accident said that she saw the 42-year-old man riding his bike just minutes before the collision. The accident reminded all Illinoisans of the reality that bicyclists face increased risk of severe and even fatal injuries in collisions with motor vehicles. 

Bicycle Accidents Statewide 

The huge size and weight differential between bicycles and cars often results in serious harm to cyclists who are involved in a bicycle accident. In the state of Illinois, bicyclists face increased risk of injury due to inclement weather, as well as the urban nature of many of our roadways. In a study conducted in 2014 by the Governors Highway Safety Association, Illinois ranked fifth among all states in bicycle injuries. Since the study was conducted, not much has changed. In 2016 alone, over 3,000 Illinoisans were injured while riding their bicycles. Additionally, 20 bicyclists suffered fatal injuries throughout the state in 2016. 

Nationwide Bike Injuries

Tragically, bicycle injuries are a massive issue throughout the entire country. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), bicyclists face a much higher risk of fatal injury than those traveling within motor vehicles. In 2015 alone, more than 1,000 Americans were killed in bicycle accidents. Even more alarming is the fact that an incredible 467,000 American cyclists suffered severe injuries throughout 2015. 

Every year, thousands of cyclists around the country are injured in bicycle crashes. Due to the limited protection afforded to cyclists in these collisions, bicycle crashes can be accompanied by severe, and even fatal, injury. Recently, Chicago area cyclists were reminded of the inherent risks they face every time they ride their bike. 

On Tuesday, August 5th, a bicyclist traveling around North Avenue and Clark Street was injured when he was struck by a 2006 Mazda SUV. The driver of the Mazda fled from the scene and was later arrested after colliding with multiple law enforcement vehicles. For bicyclists around the Chicago area, the accident further proves just how dangerous riding your bike can be. 

Bicycle Injuries Nationwide 

As the weather throughout the greater Chicago area continues to rise in temperature, more and more Chicagoans are electing to ride their bikes as a means of transportation and recreation. Commuting via bike has become a prominent alternative to driving throughout the United States. With zero carbon output and a number of health benefits, it is no surprise that more Americans are riding their bicycles than ever. Still, bicycling comes with risk. 

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 835 American bicyclists were fatally injured in collisions involving motor vehicles throughout 2016. The high fatality rate represented an increase from 2015 and was the highest nationwide cyclist death count since 1991. The next time you or your family enjoy a bike ride, practice extreme caution. In the event of a bicycle accident, it is important to understand how to obtain compensation that will address your damages and help you recover from your injuries. 

Staying Safe This Summer