What Happens if a Bicyclist Strikes a Pedestrian?

 Posted on October 26, 2021 in Cook County personal injury lawyer

Walking and riding a bicycle can both be great ways to get around in a metropolitan area. These methods of transportation offer fresh air and great exercise - but they come with dangers. You may think of pedestrian accidents as strictly motor vehicle accidents that involve a pedestrian. However, serious injuries can occur when a pedestrian is struck by a bicycle. If you were injured while walking after being hit by a cyclist, contact an experienced attorney to help you recover compensation.

What Challenges Come With Pursuing Compensation from a Bicyclist?

Unlike in a motor vehicle accident, where your attorney would most likely be filing a claim against a car insurance company, pursuing compensation after being struck by a bicycle generally involves going after the cyclist himself. In some cases, this can streamline the process. An individual cyclist lacks the legal team that most insurance companies have. However, pursuing compensation from an individual can also present challenges, as they are generally not as responsive and organized as an insurance company.

Gathering evidence can also be challenging. When a car hits a pedestrian, there is generally significant damage to the car. Depending on how the cycling collision occurred and the type of bicycle involved, there may be little or no damage to the bicycle. Additionally, cyclists are more likely than drivers to handle repairs themselves at home. Your attorney may need to rely on evidence like witness testimony and traffic or security cameras to prove what happened.

What is Negligent Cycling?

Just like drivers in motor vehicles, bicyclists have a duty to use reasonable care when they ride to avoid injuring others. Laws like speed limits and stopping at red lights apply to bicycles the same as they apply to motor vehicles. In Illinois, cell phone use laws apply to cyclists on roadways, as a bicyclist who is looking down at his phone is more likely to cause an accident. Other laws that do not apply to motor vehicles may apply to cyclists. A cyclist may be riding negligently if he:

• Speeds

• Is distracted

• Carries an unsafe load

• Passes improperly

• Is impaired

• Ignores traffic signals

Call an Illinois Pedestrian Accidents Lawyer

If you have been injured because a bicyclist carelessly crashed into you, you will want an experienced Orland Park pedestrian accidents attorney leading your fight to recover compensation. Issa Law, LLC has the experience needed to handle your claim, starting by conducting a thorough investigation. Do not wait to contact a lawyer after an accident. Evidence of collisions between bicyclists and pedestrians can disappear quickly, so you will want an attorney right away. Call 708-966-2408 for a free consultation.

Source:

https://rideillinois.org/safety/bike-laws/