How Bicyclists can be Safe on Chicago Streets

March 29, 2012

Almost as a rite of spring, bicyclists will soon begin emerging on the streets of Chicago to signal the end of another long winter in the Windy City. Bicyclists are regularly seen on city streets, as many commute to work or enjoy what the city has to offer. However, they are sometimes seen as being out of place. Some motorists view bicyclists as pedestrians on two wheels since they are not powerful enough to be motorcycles, but in fact, bicyclists generally have to follow the same rules that cars do. This confusion has led to a number of bicycle accidents in Chicago - often resulting in severe injuries.

Bike Laws in Chicago

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, 1,711 bikers were in accidents in 2010. Five of them were fatal and 149 bicyclists were severely injured.

Safety advocates believe that education is a key component in preventing accidents. Motorists and bicyclists share a responsibility for knowing and following traffic laws. The City of Chicago has a number of ordinances geared toward promoting safety between bicyclists, motorists and pedestrians alike.

First and foremost, bicyclists are more akin to other motor vehicles on the road and not like pedestrians. In fact, a Chicago bike law specifically says, "Every person riding a bicycle upon a roadway shall be granted all of the rights and shall be subject to all of the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle." The corresponding Illinois statute also contains very similar language.

In addition, one of the most important Chicago code sections for bicyclists is the one that says bicyclists shall ride "as near as practicable" to the right-hand side of the roadway - in other words, you should generally ride your bike in the same direction as traffic. It has been shown that vehicles tend to see bicyclists when they ride with traffic on city streets. If you choose to go the opposite direction of traffic, not only are you probably violating the law, but you are also doing something motorists may not be expecting and also lessening the time you will have to react to dangerous situations.

Bicyclists on Chicago streets must also ride in a single file line, except on paths specifically designated for bikes. Moreover, bicyclists may not ride on business district sidewalks unless they have been marked as commuter routes that have specifically been set aside for such traffic. Further, bicyclists emerging from alleyways, driveways and buildings have a duty to yield the right of way for pedestrians and oncoming traffic.

Also, if there is a bike path provided adjacent to a roadway, bicyclists are required to use that path instead of the road. They also have an obligation to use due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction. Following these rules is especially important at street intersections, as this is where a majority of accidents occur.

Bike Safety Tips

Riders can also protect themselves by following a few basic safety rules. First, riders should always be in control of their bikes. This goes beyond using both hands and not doing wheelies on Michigan Avenue. Instead, make sure that the brakes, gears and wheels are in good working order, and that the bike is the correct size.

Second, riders can protect themselves by wearing a helmet. While Illinois law only requires riders under age 18 to wear protective headgear, wearing a helmet is still a good idea. Research by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), suggests that a helmet is the single most effective way to mitigate head injuries if you are involved in an accident.

While it is a popular way to enjoy a ride and drown out traffic noise, using I-pods or radios in both ears is not a good idea. Riders should be aware of other drivers because they may not be vigilant in following the rules of the road. Although a majority of accidents take place during the day, it is also advisable to wear bright colors or reflectors to make sure drivers see you.

Unfortunately, even if you follow every rule, bicycle accidents may still occur. If you are injured in a bicycle accident, an experienced personal injury lawyer can advise you of your rights and options.

Article provided by Woodruff Johnson & Palermo, Injury Law Offices
Visit us at www.woodrufflawyers.com