Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog
Cyclists are visibly present in Chicago every day, taking to the streets for exercise and for transit. But bicycles are becoming more and more popular in suburban areas as well. Under the laws in Illinois, a bicyclist has every right to ride in a lane of traffic and must obey all rules that apply to vehicles. This means that cars, trucks, and vans must respect the rights of those who ride bicycles as they respect the rights of other vehicles.
Bikes and motorized vehicles can both travel in the same areas without collisions occurring but only if people act in a safe and reasonable manner. Failing to pay attention, failing to look for a bicycle, or otherwise acting in a negligent manner may lead to a bicycle accident. When a crash occurs, injuries are likely to result and may lead a cyclist with permanent damages. The worst accidents can even claim a bicyclist’s life.
The laws in Chicago are designed to protect the rights of those who are victimized by the errors of others through the use of a civil claim for damages. This means that if an accident occurs and one or more people suffer injuries, those victims may be entitled to relief and can seek that relief against a responsible driver, and at-fault owner of a vehicle, or anyone else who bears responsibility for the collision. Speaking with a lawyer who has experience representing injury victims can help you understand the legal implications of your accident and whether you may have a valid claim for your damages. In the tragic event that a victim is killed, the victim’s surviving family members may have a claim for their losses, though no amount of money can ever fully compensate a family for those loses.
Police in Roselle were called to the scene of an accident yesterday between a van and a bicycle that left the cyclist dead. The incident occurred near Roselle Road and Rosemont Avenue shortly after 6:00 a.m. Police believe that a 63-year-old man was driving a van eastbound on Rosemont when he attempted a left hand turn at the intersection. A 47-year-old man was riding his bicycle in the area and the van stuck the bicycle in what is believed to have been the intersection as the van turned. Emergency crews responded and transferred the cyclist to a hospital in Elk Grove but the man’s injuries were too severe and he was pronounced dead.
The investigation into the crash and the factors leading up to it is ongoing at this time but police do not suspect impairment on the part of the driver of the van. Authorities have not reported whether any charges will be filed against the driver or whether tickets will issue.
If you have been hurt in an accident while riding a bicycle in Chicago or if your loved one has been killed, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. This is true regardless of whether the at-fault driver was cited in the collision or charged with any criminal offense. In fact, your right to recover is separate and distinct from any action taken by the police and local authorities in the investigation and prosecution into a responsible driver’s conduct.
The injury lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. believe in helping those that have been hurt by others. To help victims obtain relief, we offer a free case consultation to anyone who has been hurt in an accident and we offer it 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Call us toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 today and let us help you get the answers you deserve. If you prefer to meet with us in person but you are too injured to travel to our offices, we also offer free in-home or in-hospital consultations without any obligation on your part. If you have been injured, call us today.
Prior Blog Entry:
Chicago Hit-And-Run Crash Leaves Pedestrian Dead, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published April 21, 2014.
Resource:
Bicyclist dies after being hit by van in Roselle, Chicago Tribune, published April 22, 2014.