Can I Recover Compensation for my Injuries if I was in a Hit-and-Run Bicycle Accident?

Probably. With a description of the vehicle, the police may be able to locate the driver responsible and if they are insured, you could pursue compensation from them. Additionally, you may be able to file a claim with your own auto insurance company to cover your damages.

What Should I do After I am Involved in an Illinois Bicycle Accident?

If you are a victim in a hit-and-run bicycle accident and you are physically able to do so, you should report it to law enforcement immediately. Illinois law requires the filing of police reports in all traffic accidents involving bodily harm, death, or property damage greater than $1,500 (625 ILCS 5/11-406). If possible, try to get the vehicle’s license plate number so the police can track the owner down. Police have many tools at their disposal nowadays including street cameras, and frequently the driver who caused an accident is eventually apprehended.

Additionally, once you have received medical attention and are safe from immediate harm, you should contact a qualified personal injury law firm that can preserve your right to pursue financial recovery in court. There is a lot you need to do if you want to collect compensation from the at-fault party, and an experienced bicycle accident firm can make sure all the proper steps are taken at no cost to you until you are finally compensated.

What Information Should I Gather After an Illinois Bicycle Accident?

In addition to getting license plate numbers, it is important to get names and telephone numbers of any witnesses to the incident, as they may be able to help identify the vehicle or driver. Other information you should gather after a bike accident includes:

• Your medical history (in case the at-fault driver or their insurer tries to claim that your injuries existed before the accident)


• Receipts for accident-related expenses including medical bills and property damage to your bike


• Verification of your income (to recover lost wages for any time you had to take off from work)


• Any memories you have about details of the accident

What Recourse do I Have if the Driver Can’t be Found?

In the event the at-fault driver cannot be identified or is uninsured, you may be able to receive compensation from your own auto insurance company if you, or in some cases a family or household member, have an auto policy with uninsured motorist coverage. Illinois has an uninsured and hit-and-run motor vehicle coverage statute, which requires persons carrying auto insurance to be insured against loss from uninsured motorists and hit-and-run accidents (215 ILCS 5/143a). Under the statute, there must be contact between you and the vehicle that hit you.

Want to Learn More About Your Recovery Options?

Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers LLC helps victims of hit-and-run bicycle accidents understand their rights and the recovery options available to them. We work hard for our clients on a contingency-fee basis, so you don't have to worry about up-front legal bills at a very stressful time in your life.

Do you want to learn more about your legal rights and the recovery that is available to you? Call our offices now to speak with someone from Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers and get started on the road to receiving your rightful compensation.