Riding a bike is a healthy, cost-effective, eco-friendly means of travel. Unfortunately, bicyclists are also very vulnerable when sharing the road with cars. Motorists are expected to drive safely and be vigilant for bicyclists and pedestrians. Unfortunately, many drivers fail to take this responsibility seriously. If you or a loved one were involved in a collision while riding a bike, you may be able to take legal action against the driver.
Holding a Negligent Driver Responsible for a Bike Collision
Bicycle accidents that happen in the blink of an eye can change the rider’s life forever. Distracted driving, intoxicated driving, speeding, and failure to yield are all common causes of bicycle collisions. When a driver’s negligence leads to a car-on-bicycle collision, the injured bicyclist may be able to take legal action against the driver.
The at-fault driver may be required to reimburse the bicyclist for damages, including:
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Property damage – Bicycle repair or replacement and other property damage caused in the crash may be compensable.
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Medical bills – Being hit by a car can lead to severe injuries that require costly medical care. Financial reimbursement may be available for X-rays, CT scans, and other diagnostic tests, hospitalization, doctor’s visits, physical and occupational therapy, medication, and more.
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Lost wages – Most people involved in a serious bicycle accident are unable to work while they recover from their injuries. Fortunately, compensation may be available for past and future lost income caused by the crash.
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Lost earning capacity – Catastrophic injuries sustained in a bike crash may lead to long-term or permanent disabilities. If you cannot return to your previous line of work after the crash, you could be entitled to compensation for lost earning capacity.
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Non-economic consequences of the crash – Being struck by a car is a terrifying experience to go through. Many bike accident victims are left with not only physical pain, but also deep emotional and mental pain. Some suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, phobias, or anxiety long after the collision. Financial compensation may be available for pain, mental anguish, emotional suffering, disfigurement, and other non-financial consequences of the crash.
Contact a Crystal Lake Bicycle Accident Attorney
Bike crashes can cause traumatic brain injuries, spine injuries, broken bones, PTSD, and other severe injuries. If you or a loved one were harmed in a bicycle collision, contact our McHenry County personal injury lawyers for help holding the driver accountable. You may be entitled to compensation for your financial and non-financial damages.
Call Botto Gilbert Lancaster, PC at 815-338-3838 for a free consultation.
Source:
https://www.illinoiscourts.gov/courts/circuit-court/illinois-pattern-jury-instructions-civil/