Berwyn Township, IL, has become increasingly bike-friendly, but dangers still persist for cyclists navigating local streets. Reckless drivers, narrow roadways, and a lack of bike-specific infrastructure continue to pose serious risks. Westwood Legal Group is devoted to advocating for injured cyclists, ensuring they receive fair compensation and the legal representation needed to move forward with confidence.
Call us now at 312-261-5656 for a free, no-obligation consultation, available 24/7. With our no-fee-unless-we-win policy, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the rest.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Berwyn Township
- Distracted Drivers — motorists on phones or talking to passengers may overlook cyclists.
- Poor Road Conditions — potholes, gravel, or debris force cyclists off balance or into traffic.
- Right‑Hook Accidents — drivers turning right at intersections like Ogden Avenue & Harlem Avenue cut off cyclists going straight.
- Left‑Cross Collisions — drivers turning left fail to see oncoming cyclists with the right of way.
- Failure to Yield at Intersections — especially at 26th Street & Ridgeland Avenue, drivers ignore cyclists’ right of way.
- Reckless Driving and Speeding — aggressive motorists endanger cyclists where no bike lanes exist, e.g., Cermak Road & Oak Park Avenue.
- Improperly Parked Cars (Dooring) — doors opened into cyclists’ paths cause sudden crashes.
- Lack of Bike Infrastructure — few or poorly marked bike lanes force cyclists to share roads with larger vehicles.
Why Choose a Lawyer for Bicycle Accidents?
A bicycle accident lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process and maximize your compensation. Key benefits of hiring an attorney include:
- Thorough case investigation – Lawyers gather evidence, interview witnesses, and analyze accident reports.
- Insurance negotiations – Attorneys negotiate with insurance companies to prevent lowball settlement offers.
- Legal representation – If necessary, lawyers take cases to court to ensure full and fair compensation.
- Expert legal guidance – Understanding of Illinois bicycle laws and how they apply to your case.
- No upfront costs – Most attorneys work on contingency, meaning you pay nothing unless you win.
High‑Risk Areas for Bicycle Accidents in Berwyn Township
Certain roads and intersections in Berwyn Township pose significant risks to cyclists, including:
- Ogden Avenue & Harlem Avenue – A heavily congested intersection with fast‑moving traffic and limited bike‑friendly infrastructure.
- 26th Street & Ridgeland Avenue – High traffic volumes at rush hour; commercial vehicles and lack of bike lanes make it hazardous.
- Cermak Road & Oak Park Avenue – Limited visibility and narrow roadways create challenges for cyclists; vehicles often fail to yield.
- Windsor Avenue & East Avenue – Busy commercial area with unpredictable vehicle movements, making it difficult for cyclists to navigate safely.
Bicycle Accident Trends in Berwyn Township, Illinois
The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) reported 2,352 bicycle‑related crashes statewide in 2021 and 42 bicyclist fatalities in 2023, up from 33 in 2022. While specific data for Berwyn Township is limited, nearby urban areas recorded over 1,200 bicycle accidents in 2022, illustrating ongoing risks for local cyclists.
Types of Common Bicycle Accidents
Cyclists in Berwyn Township face a variety of accident risks, including:
- Right-hook collisions – A vehicle turning right in front of or into a cyclist’s path.
- Rear-end crashes – A driver failing to stop in time and hitting a cyclist from behind.
- Dooring incidents – A parked car door opening unexpectedly into a cyclist’s path.
- Intersection collisions – A driver running a red light or failing to yield at a stop sign.
- Hit-and-run accidents – A driver striking a cyclist and fleeing the scene.
- Side-swipes – A vehicle veering into a bike lane and pushing a cyclist off the road.
- Crosswalk accidents – A driver failing to yield to a cyclist in a marked crosswalk.
Compensation for Bicycle Accident Victims in Berwyn Township
- Medical Expenses (735 ILCS 5/2‑622)
- Lost Wages & Loss of Earning Capacity (735 ILCS 5/2‑1116)
- Pain and Suffering (no cap in Illinois)
- Property Damage
- Punitive Damages (735 ILCS 5/2‑604.1)
- Wrongful Death Compensation (740 ILCS 180/1)
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Berwyn Township
- Step 1: Seek Immediate Medical Attention — visit MacNeal Hospital or Rush Oak Park Hospital even if injuries seem minor.
- Step 2: Report the Accident to Law Enforcement — file a report with the Berwyn Police Department.
- Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene — photos, witness info, and road hazards.
- Step 4: Avoid Speaking with Insurance Companies Without Legal Advice — let Westwood Legal Group handle negotiations.
- Step 5: Document Your Injuries and Expenses — keep medical bills and wage‑loss records for your claim.
Local Courthouse in Berwyn Township
Maywood Courthouse
Address: 1500 Maybrook Dr, Maywood, IL 60153
Phone: (708) 865‑6000
Get Directions to Our Law Office
Visit us in Chicago for a free consultation
- Address: 101 N Wacker Drive, Suite 100B, Chicago, IL 60606 Get Directions
- Driving Directions: If you’re traveling from The Loop, head north on Wacker Drive. Our office is between Lake and Randolph Streets, easily accessible from I-90 and I-94.
- Parking Options: Convenient parking is available at nearby garages, such as the Wacker & Monroe Garage, and there are metered spaces along N Wacker Drive.
- Landmarks Nearby: Our office is just steps from the Chicago Riverwalk and close to The Loop, making it a convenient location for visitors.
Contact Us
Chicago Injury Lawyers
101 N Wacker Drive, Suite 100B
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (312) 261-5656
Email: contact@chicagoinjurylawyer.com
Hours: 24/7
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in Berwyn Township?
Illinois generally allows two years from the accident date to file a personal‑injury claim, so acting quickly preserves evidence and strengthens your case.
What if the driver who hit me fled the scene?
For a hit‑and‑run, report it immediately to the Berwyn Police Department. If you have uninsured‑motorist coverage, you may still recover damages; Westwood Legal Group can help.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Under Illinois’ comparative negligence rule, you can recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault; your award is reduced by your share of fault.
How do I prove the driver was negligent?
Gather police reports, witness statements, photos, and medical records. An attorney will compile and present this evidence to establish negligence.
What types of compensation are available?
You may be eligible for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and possibly punitive damages in cases of extreme negligence.
What should I do immediately after a bicycle accident in Berwyn Township?
Seek medical attention, report the incident to Berwyn Police Department, collect evidence, and consult Westwood Legal Group before speaking with insurers.
