Legal Advocacy For Chicago Cyclists Injured In Car Accidents
Every day, cyclists bravely take to the roads and do their best to arrive safely at their destinations despite the ever-present threat of cars. Unfortunately, many succumb to the danger of motorists. When Chicago cyclists’ lives are turned upside down by car accidents, the attorneys at Berg & Berg Attorneys at Law help them make things right again.
I’ve Been In An Accident. What Should I Do?
The moments following a car accident are crucial for cyclists to begin working on damage control. However, it isn’t easy to do if you have no idea where to start.
Here are a few key steps to take if you get injured in a crash with a vehicle:
- Call the police and an ambulance to the scene
- Collect the driver’s contact information and the contact information of any witnesses
- Contact a personal injury attorney
Taking these actions can help position you for success in a personal injury lawsuit.
Common Types Of Bicycle Accidents
There are three main types of bike accidents that we see at our firm:
- Left hook
- Right hook
- Dooring
A left hook accident happens when a motorist turns left, not yielding to a cyclist that is oncoming in the other lane.
A right hook accident occurs when a motorist passes a cyclist on their left side and makes a right turn in front of them, cutting the cyclist off.
Dooring happens when a cyclist passes a parked car on the left side, and the driver opens their door, making the cyclist crash into it.
What Causes Bike Accidents In Chicago?
Numerous factors contribute to these accidents. An especially pervasive one is drivers’ recklessness and negligence. Driving too fast, disobeying signs and signals and not paying close enough attention to their surroundings can be disastrous for cyclists.
Drivers also don’t always treat cyclists with the same respect that they extend to other drivers. They may also fail to yield to cyclists or attempt to overtake them, which can easily cause a crash.
Additionally, adverse weather or road conditions can make it hard for motorists to maintain control of their vehicles, and cyclists can get hurt.
Compensation May Be Available To Injured Cyclists
There are several things that car accident victims can get compensation for, including the following:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
Depending on the details of your particular case, more damages could be available. Consult with a personal injury attorney to learn more.
Let’s Start Moving Forward Today
If you are a cyclist who has been injured at the hands of a driver, do not delay in getting legal representation. At Berg & Berg Attorneys at Law, our experienced and dedicated attorneys are ready to help you get your life back on track. Send us a message or call our office at 773-823-9000 to schedule your free initial consultation. Se habla español.