Chicago Law Firm Helping Recover Compensation for Bicycle Injuries on Halsted Street
Halsted Street is one of Chicago’s busiest north-south corridors, stretching from Lincoln Park to Bridgeport and beyond. With bike lanes, access to CTA transit, and connections to neighborhoods and schools, it sees steady bicycle traffic from commuters and recreational riders alike.
Unfortunately, the street’s popularity also makes it a hotspot for serious bike crashes, especially at intersections where motor vehicles, buses, and even dump trucks often fail to yield.
If you’ve been injured in a Halsted Street bike accident, a Chicago bicycle accident lawyer can help you recover compensation and hold negligent drivers accountable.
Why Halsted Street Is Risky for Cyclists
Halsted Street cuts through busy residential and commercial areas, but its bike infrastructure is inconsistent. While some segments have a bike lane, others lack protection, forcing cyclists into traffic with fast-moving motor vehicles. Narrow lanes, curbside parking, and faded markings add to the danger.
Intersections near UIC, Greektown, and Lakeview are known bike collision hotspots, often involving drivers making quick turns without checking for cyclists. High volumes of dump trucks, delivery vans, and rideshare vehicles further crowd the road, frequently blocking lanes or shoulders.
Despite some efforts by the Chicago Department of Transportation, Halsted remains one of the more hazardous routes in the city.
Common Injuries and Accidents Reported on Halsted Street
Cyclists injured in Halsted Street bicycle accidents often suffer serious harm due to the types of crashes common along this corridor.
Dooring incidents—when a parked car door suddenly opens into a rider’s path—can lead to broken bones, concussions, and deep lacerations.
Sideswipes from passing motor vehicles or dump trucks may cause spinal injuries or road rash.
At busy intersections, right-hook turns—where a driver turns right across a bike’s path—are a frequent cause of head trauma and shoulder injuries.
Without consistent bike infrastructure, cyclists are exposed to constant risk. Even seemingly minor crashes can leave lasting physical and financial consequences that require legal action to address.
Relevant Chicago Ordinances and Bike Lane Infrastructure on Halsted Street
Halsted Street is part of the official Chicago Bike Network, but its bike infrastructure is inconsistent across neighborhoods. Some stretches include standard or buffered bike lanes, while others force cyclists to share space with traffic.
Under Chicago Municipal Code § 9-36-010(c), motor vehicles must allow a minimum 3-foot passing distance when overtaking a bicycle. In addition, Municipal Code § 9-40-060 prohibits vehicles from parking or standing in designated bike lanes.
The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) has proposed safety upgrades for key corridors like Halsted, especially in areas with repeated bike crashes. Although progress has been limited, CDOT continues to evaluate high-risk intersections and has acknowledged the need for expanded safety measures and protected lanes on busy streets like Halsted.
Cyclists are encouraged to report hazards through the city’s 311 system to support these efforts.
Fault in Halsted Street Bicycle Accidents
Assigning fault in Halsted Street bike accidents can be complicated due to the urban setting and dense traffic. Drivers may be at fault for opening car doors into cyclists’ paths, turning without yielding, or drifting into bike lanes. On Halsted, crashes often involve vehicles exiting alleys, especially in areas like Lincoln Park and Near West Side, where alleyways and driveways cut across sidewalks and bike paths.
Pedestrian congestion near retail corridors can also cause swerving or sudden stops that lead to collisions. In some cases, delivery drivers or rideshare vehicles parked illegally in bike lanes are found liable. A thorough investigation is often needed to determine who’s responsible.
Steps to Take After a Bike Collision on Halsted Street
If you’re involved in a bike accident on Halsted Street, following the proper steps can protect your health and strengthen any future legal claim:
Call 911 – Report the crash and request police at the scene. An official report can be vital for your case.
Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked at a nearby hospital like Rush University Medical Center or Northwestern Memorial Hospital.
Document the scene – Take photos of your bike, any vehicles involved, the road conditions, traffic signs, and visible injuries.
Gather witness information – Collect names and contact details of anyone who saw the accident.
Do not speak to insurance companies alone – Insurers may try to minimize your claim. Speak with a Chicago bike accident lawyer first to protect your rights.
How a Chicago Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
A Chicago bicycle accident lawyer can be essential after a serious crash on Halsted Street.
Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, gather police reports, video footage, and witness statements, and preserve crucial evidence before it’s lost. They’ll handle all communication with the driver’s insurance company to protect your rights and prevent lowball settlement offers.
A skilled Chicago personal injury lawyer will calculate your full damages—including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering—and fight for fair compensation. Whether through negotiation or litigation, having a legal advocate ensures your voice is heard and your recovery is prioritized after a Halsted Street bike collision.
Secure Expert Legal Counsel Following a Bike Accident on Halsted Street
If you were injured in a bike crash on Halsted Street, don’t face the aftermath alone. Our Chicago bicycle injury lawyers understand the risks cyclists face on this busy corridor and are ready to help you take legal action.
We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to review your case and explain your options. With the proper legal support, you can recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, and long-term harm.
Call us today at (312) 646-3708 or fill out our contact form to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you protect your rights and move forward with confidence.
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