Waukegan Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Waukegan is a bicyclist-friendly city and naturally has its fair share of bicyclists. Some people enjoy biking when the weather is nice and others prefer it as a form of transportation to and also, from their jobs.
Whatever the reason is for using a bicycle, it is important to be aware of the rights and duties of a bicyclist who uses the road or sidewalks. More bicyclists on the road ultimately increase the chances of an accident occurring. If you have been injured in a serious accident, it is important for you to also contact an experienced accident attorney quickly. A Waukegan bicycle accident lawyer can help you fight for the necessary compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Bicycle-Related Accidents
- Auto Collisions – Most bicycle accidents occur on the road and are between a bicyclist and motorist. These accidents can be attributed to:
- Driver negligence
- Driver failure to yield
- Traffic control device malfunctioning
- Poorly Maintained Roads
- Potholes
- Cracks in sidewalk
- Lastly, a flaw in bicycle manufacturing
- Brake failure
- Pedal failure
Waukegan Bicyclist Laws
In Waukegan, a bicyclist who chooses to bike on roads will be treated the same as a motorist. Bicyclists must adhere to all traffic control devices. Bicyclists must clearly signal their intentions to other motorists such as the intent to make a right or left turn. If a bicyclist chooses to ride during the nighttime, then the bicycle must be equipped with proper reflectors and lights.
It is critical to follow these laws at all times when riding a bicycle, failure to do so can result in serious injury and potentially prevent someone from filing a lawsuit.
Typical Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Waukegan has many roads shared by cyclists and motorists. Although falling off one’s bike may not result in serious injuries, a high-speed collision with a car or truck can prove to be catastrophic. Examples of common injuries arising from bicycle accidents include:
- Traumatic head injuries (fractures skulls, concussion, etc.)
- Fractured bones
- Scrapes, bruises, lacerations
- Spinal cord injuries
- Neck or back injuries
- Also, foot injuries
- Teeth-related injuries
- Lastly, broken nose
Injuries resulting from a bicycle accident can range in severity. A bicyclist does not enjoy the luxury and safety of a motorist. Bicyclists are particularly vulnerable and should exercise extreme caution when sharing the road with motorists.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident
If the bicyclist is able to get up and walk after the accident, it is important to gather the necessary information. If a collision occurred between a cyclist and a motorist, then the parties should exchange insurance information. The cyclist should immediately take pictures and videos of any damages suffered.
The cyclist should also look for any witnesses who may have seen the accident happen. After gathering the necessary information, the cyclist should visit the closest hospital or physician and make sure that there are not any underlying damages to their body, then contact a dedicated Waukegan bicycle accident lawyer.
Bicycle Accidents Lawyers in Waukegan
Bicycle accident lawsuits can be tricky. Insurance companies can become involved when attempting to settle a claim. Additionally, in some circumstances, the city can be sued for failing to properly maintain the roads or traffic control signals. Consulting with an experienced bicycle accident attorney in Waukegan is critical in order to determine the merits of one’s case.