Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Bicycle Rider in Illinois

 Posted on March 24, 2022 in Bicycle Accidents

As the weather warms up, many people will be enjoying the weather on their bicycles. Riding a bicycle is a healthy and environmentally friendly way to travel around the Waukegan area. However, sharing the road with motor vehicles can also be dangerous. If you plan to enjoy Waukegan on a bike, it is important to know the laws. Contrary to popular belief, bicyclists are expected to follow many of the same traffic rules as the drivers of motor vehicles.

Bicyclists also have important rights. If you or a loved one were hurt in a collision while riding your bike, you may be able to recover financial compensation for your damages. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and responsibilities.

Bicycle Laws in Waukegan, Illinois

As a bicyclist, it is important to follow the rules of the road for both your safety and the safety of those around you. If you plan to ride at night, you must equip your bike with a front and rear light. In Illinois, bicyclists are required to follow the same laws as motorists. This includes:

• Riding on the right side of the road.
• Riding in the same direction as traffic.
• Only riding one person on a bike unless the bicycle is designed for multiple riders.
• Yielding the right of way to pedestrians on crosswalks.
• Following the proper yielding procedures at two-way and four-way intersections.
• Complying with any police instructions.
• Stopping at traffic signs and signals.

What to Do If You Are Hurt in an Accident

Unfortunately, even the most prudent bicyclists cannot avoid every accident. If you are ever involved in a crash with a vehicle, stay at the accident scene until police arrive. If you are injured, immediately seek medical treatment. If possible, gather names and contact details from any witnesses to the accident. You may be able to seek financial compensation for your medical bills, lost wages from missed work, repair or replacement of your bicycle, and more. You could also be entitled to compensation for your pain and other non-financial damages. Contact an experienced bicycle accident injury lawyer to learn more.

Contact a Lake County Bicycle Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one were injured in a bicycle accident, contact the Waukegan personal injury attorneys at Salvi & Maher, LLP. We can explain all of your legal options and help you take the next steps. Call our office today at 847-662-3303 to set up your free, no-obligation case assessment.

Source:

https://www.ilsos.gov/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_a143.pdf