Joliet Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Top-Rated Will County, IL Attorneys for Injured Bikers

Joliet, Illinois, has become an increasingly popular city for bicyclists—whether commuting, exercising, or enjoying the many scenic trails that wind through the region. However, with increased bicycle traffic comes a higher risk of accidents and injuries. Joliet’s mix of dense traffic, limited bicycle infrastructure, and fast-moving roadways creates hazardous conditions for cyclists. Unfortunately, serious injuries and fatalities are not uncommon when crashes occur between bicycles and vehicles.

At John J. Malm & Associates, we represent injured victims throughout Joliet and Will County who have been hurt due to someone else’s negligence. With decades of experience handling serious injury cases—including bicycle accidents—we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these incidents take. Our top-rated Joliet bike accident attorneys have recovered millions of dollars for injured clients across Illinois, and we’re committed to providing compassionate, results-driven legal representation. If you or a loved one has been injured while riding a bike in Joliet, we’re here to help you hold the at-fault driver accountable and pursue the full compensation you deserve.

The Growing Risk of Bicycle Accidents in Joliet

Bicycle accidents in Joliet have become a growing concern in recent years. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), there were 19 bicycle-related crashes reported in Joliet in 2022 alone. These resulted in 15 injuries—an alarming number considering the city’s size. While 2022 did not see any recorded bicycle fatalities in Joliet, serious injuries continue to occur regularly.

The city saw a tragic example of this in June 2024 when a 20-year-old cyclist was critically injured after being struck by a vehicle at night on West Jefferson Street. The victim, who was not using lights or reflectors, was found seriously injured in the roadway. Another incident, in October 2024, involved a 56-year-old man who was fatally struck in a hit-and-run crash on South Larkin Avenue. These incidents highlight the persistent danger faced by cyclists, particularly when infrastructure and visibility are inadequate.

Statewide, Illinois consistently ranks among the top states for bicycle crashes. In 2022, there were 2,370 bicycle crashes across Illinois, including 20 fatalities and over 2,000 injuries, according to IDOT’s Crash Facts & Statistics.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Joliet

Many Joliet bicycle accidents occur under predictable circumstances. One of the most common causes is a lack of visibility, particularly at night. Cyclists who ride after dark without proper lighting or reflective gear are at high risk. Motorists often claim they never saw the cyclist until it was too late.

Another major cause of bike accidents is driver negligence. Motorists may fail to yield at intersections, open car doors into a cyclist’s path (dooring), or turn directly in front of a bicycle. In many cases, drivers simply fail to recognize that cyclists have the same right to use the road as other vehicles.

Poor road design also contributes to crashes. Many Joliet roads lack dedicated bike lanes or clear signage. Cyclists are often forced to ride on the edge of busy traffic lanes, where they are exposed to speeding vehicles and distracted drivers. Additionally, some crashes occur due to road defects such as potholes or debris, which can cause a cyclist to lose control.

Dangerous Intersections and Streets in Joliet

Some areas of Joliet are particularly dangerous for cyclists. High-traffic corridors such as Route 53, Jefferson Street, Larkin Avenue, and Plainfield Road see a significant number of vehicle-cyclist accidents. Intersections lacking proper signage or signals also pose a serious risk.

The intersection of Jefferson Street and Houbolt Road has been the site of several recent crashes, including the June 2024 accident that left a young man critically injured. South Larkin Avenue, where the October 2024 fatal hit-and-run occurred, is another example of a heavily trafficked area with limited lighting and minimal bike infrastructure.

Bicycle Infrastructure in Joliet

While Joliet is home to several excellent multi-use trails—including the Rock Run Greenway Trail, I&M Canal Trail, and Old Plank Road Trail—these are primarily recreational and do not cover all parts of the city. On major roads, bicycle infrastructure remains limited. Few streets in Joliet have marked bike lanes or protected cycling paths, forcing riders to share space with fast-moving vehicles.

The city has made some efforts to improve its bicycle network in recent years, with local advocacy groups urging the expansion of protected bike lanes and improved street lighting. However, Joliet still lags behind many other Illinois cities in terms of cyclist-friendly infrastructure. Without safer roads and more dedicated lanes, riders continue to face elevated risk.

Illinois Bicycle Laws and Cyclist Rights

Under Illinois law, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. Under the Illinois Vehicle Code (625 ILCS 5/11-1502), drivers must share the road with cyclists, and cyclists must obey all traffic signals and signs. When riding at night, bicycles must be equipped with a front white light visible from at least 500 feet and a red rear reflector visible from 100–600 feet (625 ILCS 5/11-1507).

Illinois also has a “three-foot rule” requiring motorists to give at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicycle. Failure to follow this law can result in citations and civil liability if a crash occurs.

For cyclists, helmet use is strongly encouraged but not legally required in Illinois. Despite this, studies consistently show that helmets reduce the risk of serious head injury by up to 85%.

If a cyclist is injured in a crash with a vehicle, they may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning an injured party can recover damages as long as they were less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, any compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to the biker.

Common Injuries from Joliet Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents often result in severe, life-changing injuries. Because cyclists have little to protect them from the force of a crash, even low-speed collisions can cause significant harm. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones and fractures
• Facial and dental injuries
• Road rash and lacerations
• Internal organ damage

In the most severe cases, bicycle crashes can lead to permanent disability or death. Survivors may face long hospital stays, multiple surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing pain. The emotional and financial toll of such injuries can be enormous, which is why it’s critical to explore legal options for recovery.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Joliet

If you are involved in a bicycle accident in Joliet, your first priority should be your safety and health. Call 911 immediately and seek medical attention, even if you think your injuries are minor. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries may not become apparent until hours or days later.

Next, try to gather as much information as possible at the scene. This includes:

• Contact and insurance information for the driver
• Names and contact details for any witnesses
• Photos of the scene, your injuries, the bicycle, and the vehicle
• A copy of the police report once it becomes available

Make sure to report the accident to local law enforcement and request a crash report. This documentation can play a critical role in your personal injury claim. Do not speak with the driver’s insurance company without first consulting an experienced Joliet bicycle accident attorney.

Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable After a Bike Crash

When drivers fail to safely share the road with cyclists, they can and should be held accountable. In many Joliet crashes, the driver may be liable for failing to yield, speeding, distracted driving, or reckless behavior. In some cases—such as hit-and-runs—the driver may even face criminal charges.

By filing a personal injury claim, injured cyclists can pursue compensation for their injuries and financial losses. These claims can help cover:

• Emergency room and hospital bills
• Ongoing medical treatment and physical therapy
• Lost income from missed work
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage (e.g., destroyed bicycle or gear)

A seasoned Joliet personal injury lawyer can investigate the accident, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. If the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney can file a lawsuit and fight for your rights in court.

Fatal Bicycle Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims

When a bicycle accident results in death, the victim’s surviving family members may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim under the Illinois Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180/1). This law allows for the recovery of funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.

Wrongful death claims can provide vital financial relief to grieving families and ensure that negligent drivers are held responsible for their actions. In cases involving hit-and-run fatalities, the claim may also trigger criminal investigations and punitive damages.

Frequently Asked Questions about Joliet Bike Accidents

Q: Do helmet laws apply in Joliet?
No. While Illinois does not mandate helmet use for cyclists, wearing a properly fitted helmet significantly reduces the risk of head injuries.

Q: Are bike lanes common in Joliet?
Not yet. The city has two marked lanes as of 2022, but officials plan a modest expansion based on community input.

Q: What should I do after a bicycle crash?
Stop and render aid, call police, take photos, get witness info, and report the crash. Seek medical care immediately—even if you feel fine, injuries may appear later.

Q: Can I recover damages in a crash?
Yes, cyclists may seek compensation, even with partial fault, under Illinois modified comparative negligence. Statute of limitations is two years; one year if suing the city.

Contact Our Award-Winning Joliet Bicycle Accident Lawyers

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Joliet, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. The experienced Joliet bike injury attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates have represented injured cyclists throughout Will County and the surrounding areas. We understand the devastating impact a serious crash can have on your life—and we’re here to help you recover.

“Bicyclists have the same rights as everyone else on the road,” says John J. Malm, Joliet bicycle accident lawyer. “When a driver’s negligence causes harm, we step in to fight for our clients and ensure they get the compensation they deserve.”

Our team will investigate the accident, identify the at-fault party, and pursue maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and suffering. We handle bicycle accident cases with compassion, skill, and determination.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. There are no fees unless we recover money for you. Let us help you get back on the road to recovery.