Springfield, IL Bicycle Accident Attorneys
Sangamon County Law Firm Fighting for Bicycle Accident Victims
All too often, drivers do not watch out for bicyclists. They do not make room for cyclists on the road, even though bike riders have the right to be there. Everyone who has ridden a bicycle on the street is aware of this reality, which can tragically lead to avoidable bike accidents. In 2022 alone, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) reported over 2,500 accidents involving bicycles, unicycles, and tricycles.
At Haxel Law, we do not believe that bicycle accident victims should have to foot the bill when they are hurt because of a driver’s negligence. We understand the specific acts of driver carelessness that cause bike wrecks and frequently handle cases involving cars turning into bike riders at intersections, drivers squeezing bicyclists off the road, drivers clipping them with mirrors, drivers pulling too far out of driveways or parking lots and hitting bicyclists, drivers “dooring” bicyclists, and more.
We Can Take on the Insurance Company When You Are Hurt in a Bicycle Accident
Both of our attorneys have insurance industry experience, and our founding attorney, Martin Haxel, previously defended insurance companies in personal injury cases. Now, we exclusively focus on fighting for injury victims. Our unique knowledge puts us in a position to know how insurers look at bicycle accident claims. We’ve been in their shoes, and we know what tactics they may employ to unfairly limit what you recover.
Our team can work to negotiate a fair settlement that reflects the true value of your damages. If the insurance company refuses to offer an acceptable settlement, we are prepared to go to trial. Our track record speaks for itself, and we have recovered millions for our clients.
If you were recently struck by a vehicle while cycling, we encourage you to schedule a free consultation with our Springfield, IL, bicycle accident lawyers. Call (217) 215-4166 or contact us online to get started.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Springfield, IL
Many bicycle accidents are avoidable and the result of driver negligence. When a driver operates a vehicle negligently and harms a cyclist, they can be held liable for the resulting injuries. Liability arises when a driver fails to act with the reasonable care expected under the circumstances, and this failure directly leads to a collision.
Common examples of driver negligence that lead to bicycle accidents include:
- Distracted driving. This form of negligence has become increasingly prevalent due to the widespread use of smartphones and other electronic devices. A driver’s momentary lapse in attention can result in missing important road signs or failing to notice a cyclist, leading to potentially severe collisions.
- Failure to yield. Many bicycle accidents occur at intersections where drivers fail to yield the right-of-way. Whether it’s ignorance of traffic laws or a simple oversight, this negligence can have catastrophic consequences, as cyclists often occupy lanes that aren’t immediately visible to inattentive drivers.
- Speeding. Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react promptly to unexpected situations, including the sudden appearance of a cyclist in their path. This behavior not only increases the likelihood of an accident but also amplifies the severity of any collision that occurs.
- Impaired driving. Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs judgment, reaction time, and the ability to interpret traffic conditions correctly.
- Unsafe lane changes. When drivers change lanes without checking their blind spots or signaling their intentions, it can lead to dangerous encounters with cyclists who might be riding alongside or approaching quickly.
- Squeezing cyclists off the road. This occurs when drivers fail to maintain a safe distance from cyclists, particularly when passing. Drivers who don't provide adequate space can inadvertently force cyclists off their path and into potentially hazardous conditions, like curbs or debris-laden shoulders. Motorists can also inadvertently clip cyclists with their vehicles’ mirrors.
- Pulling too far out of driveways or parking lots. Drivers exiting driveways or parking lots sometimes fail to properly gauge oncoming cyclist traffic. By pulling too far out without clear visibility, they can inadvertently create obstacles or block the path of cyclists, forcing them to make sudden and dangerous evasive maneuvers that can result in crashes.
- "Dooring" bicyclists. This occurs when a driver or passenger opens a parked car’s door into the path of an oncoming cyclist without checking for traffic first. Cyclists may collide with the open door or veer into traffic to avoid it.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
Do not wait to explore your legal options with our Springfield, IL, bicycle accident attorneys if you suffered any serious injury, including:
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Brain InjuriesThese can range from mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which might have long-term, debilitating effects. Even with a helmet, the impact of a high-speed collision or fall can lead to significant neurological damage.
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Fractures and Broken BonesCyclists frequently sustain fractures due to the impact of vehicles, the ground, or other obstacles. The collarbone, arms, legs, and wrists are particularly susceptible, as cyclists often instinctively use their limbs to brace themselves during a fall.
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Spinal Cord InjuriesSpinal cord injuries can occur in severe accidents, potentially leading to paralysis or chronic pain. The back and neck are especially vulnerable when a cyclist is thrown off balance or crushed.
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Soft Tissue InjuriesInjuries to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can result from falls or the twisting motion of a sudden stop or collision. Soft tissue injuries can cause incapacitating pain and require extensive physical therapy for recovery.
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Internal InjuriesHigh-impact collisions can lead to internal injuries that are not immediately apparent. These can include damage to organs like the liver or spleen and may require urgent medical intervention.
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Facial and Dental InjuriesA fall over the handlebars or being struck by an object can result in facial injuries, including broken teeth, jaw fractures, and lacerations, which may necessitate reconstructive surgery.
How Illinois’s Bicycle Laws Could Impact Your Case
Because bicyclists share the road with cars, trucks, motorcycles, buses, and pedestrians, they are expected to follow the same traffic rules. Chapter 11 of the Illinois Vehicle Code also covers many laws that are specific to bicyclists. Breaking one or more of these rules in the moments leading up to your accident could affect the strength of your personal injury claim.
Some of the most potentially relevant Illinois bicycle laws include:
- Bicyclists must ride as close to the right-hand curb (or on the edge of the road) as reasonably possible when they are unable to keep up with the normal speed of traffic.
- Bicyclists cannot ride more than two abreast in a single lane of traffic.
- Bicyclists cannot carry objects that prevent them from using both hands when riding.
- Bicyclists cannot “race” unless the event is authorized by local officials.
Your Guide to Bicycle Accident Claims and Compensation in Illinois
Compensation for Bicycle Accident Injuries in Illinois
When pursuing compensation for bicycle accident injuries through a personal injury claim, you can generally seek both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are quantifiable financial losses directly related to the accident. Non-economic damages are meant to compensate you for subjective, non-monetary losses resulting from the wreck. After evaluating the details of your case and the extent of your damages, we can walk you through what types of compensation we can help you recover.
Our bicycle accident lawyers in Springfield, IL, can fight to secure maximum compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
- Disability
Statute of Limitations for Illinois Bicycle Accident Claims
In Illinois, the statute of limitations for bicycle accident claims is generally two years from the date of the collision. You must file a lawsuit within this period to seek compensation for injuries sustained due to someone else's negligence.
Missing this deadline can result in the loss of your right to pursue legal action and recover damages, so you should not wait to start the legal process. The sooner you reach out to us, the sooner we can start investigating your accident and working to preserve evidence.
We are committed to advocating for a safer community for bicyclists, and that starts with holding negligent drivers accountable. Call (217) 215-4166 or contact us online to discuss your claim today.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
At Haxel Law, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"Thank you, Martin."When I got injured, I knew I was going to be out of work. I knew I was going to be struggling with my family. I was really worried about the direction my life had turned towards. If I hadn't contacted Martin Haxel. I would still be fighting to get what I deserved. What was owed to me. Mr. Haxel however, stayed with me. He told me the truth. He didn't lie, or manipulate anything. He was honest and informative. He was the hope I didn't have at that time. He struggled with me to get all of it resolved. He did it with integrity, honesty, and a sincere understanding of what I was going through. To anyone considering having Mr. Haxel represent them in similar situations...I would say, you couldn't pick a better person. He's a great lawyer. He does great work. He's a nice person with a lot of experience in this field. If there's anyone you can turn to when no one will listen or even attempt to help you do what is right...Mr. Haxel is the one. I can't say enough good things about him. Now that my case is settled thanks to his work, I'm going to miss having someone having my back. He's a good man and I hope he feels good about what he's done when he lays down to sleep and reflects on his days, weeks, months, and years. People like him, give people hope, and faith that there are good people still roaming around this crazy thing called life. Martin, thank you. You're a beast.- Chris Y.
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"Highly Recommend"Attorney Martin Haxel fought long and hard for a fair and just settlement. I recommend Haxel Law for your Work Comp case.- Karyn S.
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"No One Better"I was referred to Martin by my original attorney. My original attorney didn't want to spend the time and money to represent me because my case was going to be difficult, time-consuming, and against the City of Champaign. I am so glad that Martin was willing to take my case and see it through. If you have a "hidden injury" like me or even an obvious injury Martin will handle it very professionally and give it the attention that you deserve.- John M.
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"What a great experience!"I strongly recommend Haxel Law Firm to everyone. In fact, he has now taken on my fiance as a client. Thanks Marty for what you did for me!- David S.
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"Made Everything Easy for Me"His assistant was very pleasant and helpful as well. If he wasn't available when I called and left a message he was always prompt to respond to my messages and emails. I would highly recommend him to anyone who can use his skills!- David N.
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"Martin Truly Cares About You"I had a life-changing experience 4 years ago. Mr Haxel continually worked with the insurance company to settle the workman comp claim. Mr. Haxel was always available to call if you had any concerns and was always willing to listen to you.- Marvin S.
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"Marty was great to work with!"He kept in communication and made the process as stress-free as possible. Hopefully I never need a personal injury attorney again, but if I do, I wouldn't hesitate to hire Marty.- Kristi D.
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"Very Positive Experience Representing My Daughter"Very responsive and patient answering all my questions. I hope to never be in a situation of needing a lawyer again, but if I did, I would 100% contact Martin again.- Jim P.
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"Thanks For All You Have Done!"Marty Haxel provided exceptional help with a complex work men's comp case, made our part seem small. Would refer him to anyone that needs help fighting the big guys!- David E.