Personal Injury Lawyer Le Roy Illinois | Liability for Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can result in severe injuries and even fatalities. When such accidents occur, determining liability is crucial for ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve. At Kelly & Castagna, our personal injury lawyer Le Roy Illinois has the experience and drive to hold the responsible parties accountable. Call today at 309-820-0600 for a free consultation and we’ll do everything we can to make sure you are fairly compensated.
Bicycling is a popular mode of transportation and recreation in Illinois, but it also comes with its risks. Many errors can occur, drivers can be negligent, and other factors of liability may need to be considered. It is important to understand who can be held liable for bicycle accidents in Illinois and the factors that influence these determinations.
Drivers of Motor Vehicles
In many bicycle accidents, the driver of a motor vehicle is often found to be at fault. Drivers are required to share the road with cyclists and adhere to traffic laws designed to protect all road users. Distracted driving is a common cause of accidents with bicycles. Using a phone, eating, or engaging in other distractions while driving can lead to accidents.
Drivers who fail to yield the right-of-way to cyclists at intersections or when turning are often liable. Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions. Opening a car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist can cause serious injuries. This commonly occurs in urban areas where street parking runs parallel to the bicycle lane.
In Illinois, drivers must give cyclists at least three feet of clearance when passing. Failure to do so can result in liability for any resulting accident. Proving driver negligence often involves gathering evidence such as witness statements, traffic camera footage, and police reports and our personal injury lawyer Le Roy Illinois will investigate and make sure we find the liable party.
Government Entities
Government entities responsible for maintaining roads and public spaces can also be held liable for bicycle accidents in certain circumstances. Poorly maintained roads, inadequate signage, and hazardous conditions can contribute to accidents.
Failing to repair potholes or clear debris can create dangerous conditions for cyclists. Lack of proper signage warning of hazards or guiding cyclists can lead to accidents. Inadequate or poorly designed bike lanes that do not provide sufficient protection for cyclists can be grounds for liability.
Filing a claim against a government entity involves specific procedures and deadlines, so it is crucial to act quickly and consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer Le Roy Illinois. Especially under these circumstances, there is a lot of nuance to the law and you don’t have to go it alone. We are here to help you.
Manufacturers and Retailers
In some cases, defective bicycle parts or safety gear can cause accidents. Manufacturers and retailers of these products can be held liable under product liability laws. Defective brakes can prevent a cyclist from stopping in time to avoid a collision. A bicycle frame that cracks or breaks can cause the rider to lose control. A helmet that fails to protect the rider during a crash can result in serious head injuries.
Product liability claims require proving that the product was defective and that the defect directly caused the accident and injuries. This often involves expert testimony, thorough investigation, and an experienced and dedicated personal injury lawyer Le Roy Illinois that will support you throughout the process.
Pedestrians
Pedestrians can also be at fault in bicycle accidents if their actions lead to a collision. For example, a pedestrian suddenly stepping into a bike lane without looking can cause a cyclist to crash. Common pedestrian errors include jaywalking, distracted walking, and making sudden movements.
Crossing streets outside of designated crosswalks, especially when there is traffic and bicycles coming, can cause a collision. Using phones or other distractions while walking near bike lanes or streets can be problematic if a pedestrian steps into the path of a cyclist. Making unexpected movements into the path of a cyclist is dangerous and can be the cause of an accident.
If you need a personal injury lawyer Le Roy Illinois, the team at Kelly & Castagna can help you
Determining liability in bicycle accidents in Illinois involves examining the actions of all parties involved, including drivers, cyclists, government entities, manufacturers, and pedestrians. Each case is unique and requires careful investigation to identify the responsible parties. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, consulting with an experienced personal injury lawyer Le Roy Illinois is essential to navigate the complexities of liability and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
