Life in Logan Square moves fast. In a place with this much energy, accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. Suddenly, you're not just dealing with the shock of the moment – you're left wondering what happens next.
This article walks you through two of the most common injury claims we see right here in Logan Square: bike crashes and motorcycle accidents. You'll learn how Illinois law handles these cases, what kind of evidence can make a difference, and how to fight for the compensation you deserve.
When you're ready to take the next step and move forward with a personal injury claim, The Collins Law Firm is here to help.
Nationwide, 1,377 bicyclists lost their lives in fatal accidents in 2023. Illinois mirrors this trend, with a significant number of bicycle accidents occurring in urban areas like Logan Square.
With more people choosing two wheels as their ride of choice, the potential for bicycle accidents in Logan Square has become a growing concern. Car-involved bicycle accident claims tend to fall into two categories: negligence claims against drivers who violate traffic laws or fail to yield, and product liability claims if a defective bicycle component contributed to the crash.
Even the most experienced bike rider can't outmaneuver a careless driver. The following are just four common causes of motorist-caused bike accidents.
"Dooring" might sound harmless – after all, it's just opening a car door, right? But when that door swings into the path of a cyclist or motorcyclist, the results can be devastating.
Common dooring injuries include:
Under Illinois law, drivers and passengers owe a duty of care to anyone sharing the road. If a dooring crash occurs, the vehicle occupant can be found negligent for failing to check before opening.
When a vehicle drifts into the bike lane without signaling or checking blind spots, the rider can be sideswiped or forced off the road. Using blind‑spot monitors, signaling early, and changing lanes gradually can keep everyone safer.
Impaired drivers have slower reaction times and poor judgment. Whether it's a late‑night joyride or a lunchtime cocktail, any amount of impairment can turn a routine drive into a life‑altering crash.
Sadly, not all bike crashes are accidents. Some people deliberately "door" cyclists, swerve at them, or flee the scene. These dangerous acts are often born of road rage, reckless behaviour, or the desire for social‑media notoriety.
Illinois law treats intentional harm like any other assault: If someone purposefully targets you on your bike, that person can face both criminal charges and a civil claim for your damages.
Many motorcyclists love the open road, but in a city like Chicago, that road is often shared with distracted drivers and tight intersections. One bad decision – like a car turning left into your lane – can lead to devastating consequences.
Understanding Illinois motorcycle laws is essential for riders, especially when involved in personal injury claims. These laws can significantly impact the outcome of a claim and the compensation awarded.
While Illinois doesn't require helmets, wearing one is strongly encouraged, and eye protection is mandatory. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that helmets have saved over 25,000 lives between 2002 and 2017.
If a rider was not wearing safety gear at the time of the accident and sustained injuries, the defense may argue that the rider added to the harm he or she suffered by not wearing protective gear.
Riding a motorcycle in Illinois comes with both freedom and responsibility. Riders must carry at least the state's minimum liability insurance under 625 ILCS 5/7‑601(a):
If you have insurance, victims can be paid promptly for medical bills and repairs, and your own optional MedPay coverage, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and collision coverage can handle immediate medical expenses. If you don't carry insurance, you lose leverage in negotiations, and injured parties may sue you personally.
Illinois law also expects injured riders to mitigate damages by seeking prompt medical care and following doctor's orders. If you delay treatment and your condition worsens, the court may reduce your compensation, saying you didn't take reasonable steps to heal.
For traffic accidents, Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule (735 ILCS 5/2‑1116), which means that personal injury compensation can be reduced if a claimant is partially at fault for the accident.
If a claimant is less than 51 percent at fault, he or she can still recover damages, but the amount will be reduced by the percentage of fault.
After being injured in Logan Square, Chicago, IL, you can seek both economic and non‑economic damages for the following and more:
Insurance companies might offer quick settlements to close your case fast. But accepting too early could cost you what you truly deserve. Our skilled lawyers will push for the full value of your claim – and won't back down when things get tough.
When you reach out to Collins Law, we'll start with a free, friendly conversation. We want to understand what happened, answer your questions, and explain your rights. From there, we guide you through each step. Legal jargon and endless paperwork only add stress to an already difficult time.
That's why we make our process as clear and hands‑on as possible:
Throughout each step, you'll know everything that is happening and why it is necessary.
Accidents in Logan Square can turn your world upside down. No matter the nature of your injury, you shouldn't have to navigate the legal maze alone – or settle for less than you deserve.
The Collins Law Firm is ready to stand by your side, answer your questions, and fight for every dollar you need to move forward.
Our personal injury practice areas include:
If you suffered an injury due to another party’s carelessness, call (630) 527‑1595 today to schedule your free consultation. What will it feel like to get justice, close this chapter of your life, and start rebuilding? Let's find out – together.
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