If you or someone you care about has been hurt in a bicycle accident in Libertyville, you deserve clear answers and strong support. Our team is here to help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of seeking compensation. We offer a free consultation and you pay nothing unless we win your case. Call us today or fill out our online form to get started.
Why Choose Our Libertyville Bicycle Accident Lawyers?
Our attorneys have spent years helping cyclists in Libertyville and throughout Illinois. We know the unique challenges that bike riders face on the road, and we are committed to making sure your voice is heard. Our team brings decades of combined experience and has handled many cases just like yours. We are proud to be recognized for our work in personal injury law and for the personal care we give each client.
We believe in treating every client with respect and attention. When you work with us, you are not just another case number. We take the time to listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your options. Our goal is to make the legal process as simple as possible for you, so you can focus on your recovery.
Our lawyers are local to Libertyville and understand the community. We have built a reputation for being honest, hardworking, and results-driven. We know the local courts, judges, and insurance companies, and use this knowledge to help our clients get the best outcome possible.
Meet Your Legal Team
When you choose us for your bicycle accident case in Libertyville, you get the support of a highly skilled and respected legal team. Our attorneys bring years of experience, a deep commitment to helping injury victims, and a proven record of success in personal injury law. Here are the leaders who will be by your side:
Stephen D. Phillips — Managing Partner
Stephen D. Phillips is the managing partner at Phillips Law Offices and is recognized as one of the top personal injury lawyers in Illinois and across the United States. He has achieved record verdicts and settlements for clients in Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio, and is known for his work in personal injury, catastrophic injury, traffic accidents, wrongful death, medical malpractice, and product liability cases.
Mr. Phillips has served as the President of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association and is a member of the executive committee. He has been inducted into the International Academy of Trial Lawyers, which is limited to only 500 attorneys worldwide, and the International Society of Barristers. His legal knowledge is respected by both clients and other lawyers, who often refer their family and friends to him for help with serious injury cases.
Stephen D. Phillips is admitted to practice in Illinois, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, and the United States Supreme Court. He has been named an Illinois Super Lawyer and is listed among the Top 100 Trial Lawyers in the country. His long list of awards and honors reflects his dedication and skill in representing injury victims.
Stephen J. Phillips — Partner
Stephen J. Phillips is a partner at Phillips Law Offices and represents the third generation of the Phillips family to practice law. He earned his undergraduate degree with honors from the University of Michigan and his law degree from Loyola University Chicago School of Law, where he was on the Dean’s List. Stephen began working at Phillips Law Offices as a law clerk and has continued to build his experience in complex personal injury and medical malpractice cases.
Stephen J. Phillips has played a key role in preparing and trying cases that have resulted in record-setting settlements and verdicts, including a $25 million settlement and a $14 million jury verdict—the highest ever recorded in that county. He is known for his attention to detail, skill in the courtroom, and commitment to helping injured people and their families.
He is admitted to practice law in Illinois and in federal courts, and he is active in several professional organizations, including the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association and the American Association for Justice. Stephen J. Phillips has been recognized as one of the Top 40 under 40 Trial Lawyers in the United States, an honor given to the nation’s leading young trial attorneys.
Our team’s experience, dedication, and history of success mean you can trust us to handle your bicycle accident case with care and determination. We are here to fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Libertyville
If you have been in a bicycle accident, your safety comes first. Move to a safe spot if you can, and call for medical help right away. Even if you feel okay, some injuries may not show up immediately, so it is important to get checked by a doctor.
Next, report the accident to the police. A police report can be helpful later when making a claim. Try to gather as much evidence as possible at the scene. Take photos of your bike, your injuries, the vehicles involved, and the area where the accident happened. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information.
Do not discuss who was at fault or make statements about the accident to anyone except the police and your lawyer. Insurance companies may use your words against you later. Reach out to a bicycle accident lawyer as soon as you can, so we can start protecting your rights and building your case.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Libertyville
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving happens when a driver’s attention is not fully on the road. This can include texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using a navigation system while driving. When drivers are distracted, they might not see a cyclist in time to avoid a crash. Even a moment of looking away can be enough to cause a serious accident with someone riding a bike. Staying focused and alert is important for everyone’s safety.
Drunk Driving
Driving after drinking alcohol is very dangerous. Alcohol slows down a driver’s reactions and makes it harder for them to make safe choices. A drunk driver may swerve, ignore traffic signs, or not see a cyclist at all. For people on bicycles, being hit by a drunk driver can lead to very serious injuries or worse. Avoiding alcohol before getting behind the wheel can help prevent these types of accidents.
Unsafe Lane Changes
Sometimes, drivers change lanes without checking for cyclists. If a driver does not look in their mirrors or signal before moving over, they might hit a person riding a bike. This problem is even more common near bike lanes or on busy streets. Cyclists can also be at risk if they ride in a driver’s blind spot. Both drivers and cyclists need to pay attention to lane changes to stay safe.
Door Collisions (“Dooring”)
A door collision, or “dooring,” happens when someone in a parked car opens their door into the path of a moving cyclist. The cyclist may crash into the door or swerve into traffic to avoid it, which can cause even more harm. These accidents are especially common in areas where cars park along the street. Drivers and passengers should always check for bikes before opening doors, and cyclists should try to ride far enough from parked cars when possible.
Tired Drivers
Drivers who are very tired may not react quickly or make good decisions. Falling asleep at the wheel or being too tired to pay attention can lead to accidents with cyclists. Drowsy driving can be just as risky as driving after drinking alcohol. Making sure to get enough rest before driving helps keep everyone safer on the road.
Poor Weather
Rain, fog, or snow can make it hard for drivers to see cyclists and for cyclists to control their bikes. Wet or icy roads are slippery and increase the chance of losing control. Both drivers and cyclists should slow down and be extra careful when the weather is bad. Using lights and wearing bright clothing can help cyclists be seen more easily in poor weather.
Speeding
When drivers go too fast, they have less time to stop or avoid hitting someone on a bike. High speeds make accidents more likely to cause serious injuries. Drivers should always follow the speed limit, especially in areas where cyclists are common, like near parks or schools. Slowing down can make a big difference in keeping cyclists safe.
Low Visibility
Accidents are more likely to happen when it is hard to see, such as at night, during dawn or dusk, or in heavy rain or fog. Drivers may not notice a cyclist until it is too late. Cyclists can help by using lights and wearing reflective gear, while drivers should be extra careful and watch for bikes in low-visibility conditions.
Cyclists Not Yielding
Sometimes cyclists do not follow the rules at intersections and fail to give the right of way to cars. This can lead to crashes, especially when a cyclist misjudges how fast a car is coming or does not see a vehicle. Both cyclists and drivers need to understand and follow traffic rules to avoid these types of accidents.
Hazardous Road Conditions
Potholes, loose gravel, poor signage, or other problems with the road can cause cyclists to lose control and crash. These hazards are especially dangerous for bikes because they have less stability than cars. Reporting road hazards and riding carefully can help reduce the risk of accidents caused by poor road conditions.
Bicycle Accident Statistics
Understanding Your Rights as a Cyclist in Illinois
As a cyclist in Illinois, you have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of cars. This means you are allowed to use the road, and other drivers must respect your space. If someone else’s carelessness caused your accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries.
Illinois uses a system called “comparative fault.” This means that even if you were partly to blame for the accident, you may still be able to recover money. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, you could still recover 80% of your damages.
Our lawyers will help you understand how the law applies to your case. We will explain your rights and work to make sure you are not unfairly blamed for the accident.
How We Build Your Case
Building a strong case starts with gathering all the facts. Our team will collect evidence from the accident scene, talk to witnesses, and review police reports. We may also work with medical experts to understand the full impact of your injuries.
We handle all communication with insurance companies, so you do not have to worry about saying the wrong thing. Our lawyers know the tactics insurers use to try to pay less, and we fight to make sure you get a fair offer.
If the insurance company does not offer a fair settlement, we are ready to take your case to court. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, so we are always ready to stand up for your rights.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
After a bicycle accident, you may be facing medical bills, lost income, and pain that affects your daily life. Our goal is to help you recover money for all the ways the accident has affected you. This can include payment for:
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Medical expenses, both now and in the future
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Lost wages if you cannot work
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Pain and suffering
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Damage to your bicycle and other property
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Rehabilitation and long-term care if needed.
Every case is different, and the amount you can recover depends on your injuries and how the accident happened. We will carefully review your case and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
No Upfront Fees — Contingency Fee Explained
We believe everyone should have access to quality legal help, no matter their financial situation. That is why we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay us anything unless we win your case.
Our fee comes as a percentage of the money we recover for you. If we do not win, you owe us nothing. We will explain our fee agreement clearly before you hire us, so there are no surprises.
This approach allows you to focus on your recovery, knowing that we are working hard to get you the best result possible.
Free Consultation: What to Expect
Your first meeting with us is free and confidential. During this consultation, we will listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your options. You do not have to bring anything, but if you have photos, medical records, or a police report, that can be helpful.
We will give you an honest assessment of your case and explain how we can help. There is no obligation to hire us after the consultation. Our goal is to give you the information you need to make the best decision for you and your family.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do I have to file a claim after a bicycle accident in Illinois?
You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. It is best to start as soon as possible so evidence is not lost.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
You may still be able to recover compensation. Illinois law allows you to claim damages as long as you were not more than 50% at fault.
What should I do immediately after a bicycle accident?
Get medical help, call the police, gather evidence, and avoid discussing fault. Contact a lawyer as soon as you can.
Do I need a lawyer for a minor accident?
Even small accidents can lead to injuries that show up later or problems with insurance. A lawyer can help protect your rights.
What compensation can I receive?
You may be able to recover money for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and damage to your bike.
How much does it cost to hire a lawyer?
You pay nothing unless we win your case. Our fee is a percentage of the money we recover for you.
How long will my claim take?
Some cases settle quickly, while others take longer if more investigation is needed. We will keep you updated at every step.
Can I claim if a road hazard caused my accident?
Yes, if someone was responsible for keeping the road safe, you may be able to make a claim.
What is “dooring” and can I claim for it?
Dooring is when a car door opens into a cyclist’s path. If you were hurt this way, you may be able to claim compensation.
Contact Us Today for a Free Libertyville Bicycle Accident Case Evaluation
If you have been hurt in a bicycle accident in Libertyville, call Phillips Law Offices at (312) 598-0917, use our online chat, or fill out our contact form for a free case evaluation. We are available 24/7 and ready to help you get the support and compensation you deserve.
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