What Causes Bicycle Accidents in Chicago?
by
Matthew Willens on May. 04, 2015
Accident & Injury Accident & Injury Car Accident Accident & Injury Personal Injury
Summary: Cycling is a popular activity in Chicago. There are some obvious benefits of cycling for your health, the environment, and society. However, due to a number of factors, it can also be dangerous.
Cycling does not come without risks. Cyclists must share the road with motor vehicle drivers and this poses a great risk to bicyclists. A large number of bicycle accidents occur in intersections, which are especially dangerous for cyclists. Drivers should keep the rules of the road and liability in mind to protect cyclists from injury. It is also important to understand the key causes of bicycle accidents in Chicago, so that preventive steps can be taken.
Distracted Driving
Texting and driving is illegal in Illinois but many drivers still flout the law and do it. Texting while driving takes a driver’s attention off the road for a few seconds and this is enough to cause a serious accident. Due to their small size compared to larger motor vehicles, bicyclists and pedestrians are especially vulnerable to such accidents.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving is responsible for injuring and killing a large number of people in road accidents. Many people become aggressive while driving and pose a threat to the life and safety of other drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians they are sharing the road with. People often drive too close to cyclists, leaving little room when passing them.
DUI and DWI
Driving under the influence of alcohol is the cause of many car accidents that involve pedestrians and bicyclists. Drunk drivers are often not able to spot a bicyclist or control their vehicle.
Overspeeding
Bicycle accidents caused by over-speeding are far too common in Chicago. When a driver is overspeeding, he or she has less time to react to a situation, often leading to an accident.
Recklessness
Reckless drivers are the most dangerous types of drivers. They change lanes without warning, jump red lights, race with other motor vehicles, or simply do not follow the rules of the roads. These drivers are responsible for causing a large number of bicycle accidents. They often feel it a waste of time to give the right of way to bicyclists and pedestrians.
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident caused by another driver’s negligence, consult an experienced Chicago Willens Law bicycle accident lawyer from the Willens Law Offices. Call us at (312) 957-4166 for a free consultation.