According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), thousands of bicyclists die or are injured each year while biking. Zeroing in on Chicago, five bike riders were hit by automobiles in 2024 in the city alone. With summer here, Chicago cyclists face higher injury risk with detours, drinking, and other factors.
Contact Smoler Law Office at (312) 332-9800 if you were injured by a motorist while on your bike.
How Summer Events Like Taste of Chicago and Lollapalooza Increase Crash Risk for Cyclists
In 2023, Taste of Chicago drew 120,000 people to enjoy all the city’s unique flavors. As one of the world’s largest music festivals, Lollapalooza brings out an estimated 400,000 people. With some of these people traveling from other locations to the events, there’s an increase in traffic in the city. Both events also allow alcohol, which impairs a driver’s ability to respond quickly and appropriately. Between impaired drivers and travelers who are unfamiliar with Chicago’s roadways, accident risks increase for cyclists.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents During Festivals and Street Closures
The most common injuries from car accidents with bikes include:
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
Summer events become common times for injuries to occur because of the large crowds. Cyclists are experiencing additional obstacles, and so are motorists. When roads are blocked off, drivers must take detours, which can place them in unfamiliar portions of the city or make them unaware of how to maneuver.
What Injured Cyclists Need to Know About Liability and Compensation
Getting legal help for cyclist accidents at Chicago events can ensure you receive compensation. A car accident attorney will investigate your case carefully to determine how the driver was at fault. For instance, a lawyer will see if the driver failed to stop at a light or stop sign, made an illegal turn, drove too fast, or disregarded the rules of the road in any way. The lawyer will also consider if the motorist was drinking during the event. Depending on your case, you may receive compensation for your pain and suffering, medical expenses, damage to your bike, and time off work.
You’re more likely to get into an accident while you are on your bike during the summer. The city has tourists, festivals, and a surge in people drinking, all contributing to problems for cyclists. An attorney can help if you were in an accident while on your bicycle.
Contact us at Smoler Law Office today if you sustained an injury in a bicycle accident.
