Have you or a loved one been injured in a bicycle accident in Pontiac, IL? If so, you’re not alone. Every year, hundreds of cyclists in our state are struck by negligent drivers, resulting in devastating injuries that can change lives forever.
At Onward Injury Law, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a bicycle accident can take. That’s why our team is dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured cyclists throughout Illinois.
We know the journey ahead won’t be easy, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our legal team will be by your side every step of the way, guiding you through the legal process and ensuring you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Pontiac
Bicycle accidents can happen in an instant, often due to the careless or reckless actions of drivers. Some of the most common causes we see include:
- Car doors opening directly into a cyclist’s path
- Distracted drivers who fail to see or yield to bicyclists
- Road hazards like potholes, debris, or poor maintenance
- Drunk or impaired drivers exhibiting erratic behavior
- Failure to obey traffic laws and yield the right-of-way
No matter the cause, the results can be catastrophic. Even a low-speed collision can send a cyclist flying, leading to serious injuries that may require extensive medical treatment and time away from work.
Types of Injuries from Bicycle Accidents
The injuries sustained in a bicycle accident can range from minor scrapes and bruises to life-altering traumatic injuries. Some of the most common include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and head trauma
- Spinal cord injuries resulting in partial or complete paralysis
- Broken bones, fractures, and dislocated joints
- Severe lacerations and road rash
- Internal injuries to organs like the lungs, kidneys, or spleen
These injuries often require emergency medical care, hospitalization, surgeries, and lengthy rehabilitation – racking up staggering medical bills that can burden injured persons and their families.
Why You Need a Pontiac Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Dealing with the aftermath of a bicycle accident is overwhelming enough without having to navigate the complex legal system alone. That’s where our team at Onward Injury Law comes in.
How an Experienced Attorney Can Help
When you trust us with your case, you’ll have a dedicated advocate on your side who will:
- Thoroughly investigate the accident to determine liability
- Handle all communication and negotiations with insurance companies
- Gather and preserve crucial evidence to build a strong case
- Ensure you meet all legal deadlines and requirements
- Fight tirelessly to negotiate the maximum compensation you deserve
- Take your case to trial if the insurance company refuses to settle fairly
We’ve successfully represented countless individuals injured in bicycle accidents just like you, securing compensation along the way. Our legal team is well-versed in Illinois personal injury law and has a proven track record of success.
But we’re more than just skilled attorneys – we’re compassionate advocates who truly care about our clients’ well-being. You’ll never be just another case number to us.
“If you ever find yourself needing an attorney, look no further! Josh is knowledgeable, passionate, and trustworthy. I was in an auto accident while almost 9 months pregnant, and Josh took care of us like we were family so my husband and I could focus on caring for our newborn. I highly recommend him!” Callie S.
What Compensation Can I Recover for a Bike Accident?
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- All medical expenses, including future costs for ongoing care
- Lost wages and income, both current and future
- Property damage to your bicycle or other personal belongings
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Permanent disability, disfigurement, or loss of quality of life
The compensation you’re entitled to will depend on the circumstances of your case. Our firm has been able to recover multiple six-figure settlements for our clients in Illinois, including:
- $200,000 settlement in Macon County
- $121,000 settlement in Livingston County
- $100,000 settlement in Macon County
While there’s no true average settlement you’re entitled to, you can rest assured our attorneys will advocate for every penny owed.
Illinois’ No-Fault Insurance Laws
It’s important to understand that Illinois is a “fault” insurance state, meaning the at-fault party’s insurance company is responsible for covering the damages and injuries they caused. This is different from a no-fault system, where your own insurance company would cover your damages regardless of who was at fault.
However, Illinois law does require all drivers to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This can be crucial if the at-fault driver has insufficient insurance or no insurance at all.
Our attorneys are well-versed in Illinois’ insurance laws and will ensure you receive the full compensation you’re owed – even if it means filing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party.
Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident
The actions you take immediately following a bicycle accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here are the crucial steps to follow:
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel “okay.” Some injuries, like internal bleeding or traumatic brain injuries, may not be immediately apparent.
- Report the accident to the proper authorities and obtain a copy of the official police report.
- Document everything – take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Collect contact information for any witnesses.
- Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters alone. They may try to get you to make recorded statements that could jeopardize your claim.
- Contact a respected Pontiac bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible. The sooner we can begin investigating and building your case, the better.
Get Started with a Free Consultation
At Onward Injury Law, we believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis – you won’t pay a dime in legal fees unless we secure compensation for you.
To get started, simply schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our bicycle accident attorneys. We’ll listen to the details of your case, answer any questions you may have, and advise you on the best course of action moving forward.
Don’t wait – Illinois has strict statutes of limitations for filing personal injury claims, so time is of the essence. Contact us today, and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Remember, you don’t have to face this journey alone. With Onward Injury Law by your side, you can focus on healing while we handle the legal battle. We’ll be your unwavering advocate every step of the way, dedicated to securing the best possible outcome for you and your family.
If a negligent driver has turned your world upside down, it’s time to take back control. Reach out to Onward Injury Law today, and let us be the guiding light that leads you toward a brighter future. Your path to recovery starts here.