Articles Posted in Bicycle Accident

Bicycling is increasingly popular across Illinois, from commuting in Chicago to recreational riding in Naperville and beyond. But one question consistently arises for riders and parents alike: Are bicycle helmets required by law in Illinois? The answer is more nuanced than many expect. In this blog, we discuss Illinois bicycle helmet laws, local ordinances, safety…

The rapid rise of electric scooters (e-scooters) and electric bicycles (e-bikes) has transformed how children and teenagers move through neighborhoods across Illinois. But with that convenience has come a troubling surge in pediatric injuries. A recent Daily Herald report highlights a growing concern among pediatricians: parents, children, and even communities are underestimating the risks associated…

It begins quietly. A warm June afternoon. A shaded path winding through a neighborhood park. A couple walking shoulder to shoulder. A jogger approaching from the opposite direction. A child wobbling forward on a scooter. Then, almost without sound, an electric bicycle appears. Twenty miles per hour doesn’t feel fast in a car. But on…

Electric bicycles, commonly known as e-bikes, are transforming how people commute, exercise, and travel throughout Illinois. But as their popularity surges, so too does the complexity of bicycle accident lawsuits. E-bikes occupy a gray area between traditional bicycles and motor vehicles, and that distinction is having a significant impact on liability, insurance coverage, and injury…

On a summer morning along Chicago’s Lakefront Trail, the rhythm of joggers’ footsteps and cyclists’ wheels is suddenly overtaken by a new sound: the high-pitched whir of an electric motor. A sleek e-bike zips by, its rider moving with almost no effort, keeping pace with city traffic at nearly 25 miles per hour. To some,…

When a motorist and a bicyclist must use the same travel lane, often marked with a “sharrow”, the law still expects everyone to behave predictably and safely. If you’ve been hit while riding your bicycle in a shared lane in Illinois, here’s what to know about fault, insurance, your legal rights, and practical next steps,…

Electric bicycles (e-bikes) have become increasingly popular across Illinois as more riders turn to them for fast, eco-friendly, and affordable transportation. Whether used for commuting, recreation, or food delivery, e-bikes are now a common sight in Chicago, its suburbs, and college towns throughout the state. However, this rise in popularity has been accompanied by a…

Bicyclists across Illinois rely on designated bike lanes to provide a safer riding experience, but unfortunately, accidents still happen—even in areas meant to protect riders. At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand how devastating a bicycle accident can be. With decades of experience representing injured cyclists in Naperville, St. Charles, Chicago, and throughout Illinois,…

Bicycle accidents at crosswalks present a multifaceted challenge in urban traffic management, intertwining issues of right-of-way, legal interpretations, safety measures, and the nature of injuries sustained. Understanding who holds the right-of-way in these scenarios is crucial for both cyclists and motorists to prevent accidents and ensure harmonious sharing of roadways.​ Legal Framework: Right-of-Way at Crosswalks…

Motorcyclists and bicyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road, as they lack the protective shell that cars and trucks provide. While negligent drivers are often blamed for crashes, poor or hazardous road conditions also play a significant role in accidents involving two-wheeled vehicles. Potholes, uneven surfaces, lack of proper signage, and other roadway defects can…