Riding a bicycle offers an efficient and healthy way to travel. However, anytime you choose to get on a road shared by other vehicles, you are at risk of a collision that may result in significant injuries. There are many steps that you can take to both protect your health and increase the chances for success in a personal injury claim.
First, all riders should wear protective gear, despite there being no law requiring you to do so. At the same time, be aware that a collection of state laws governs the safe and responsible operation of bikes. Remaining on the proper side of the law helps to prove another driver’s fault in a crash. These bicycle safety and preventative measures in Elgin, along with a dedicated attorney, could help protect both your health and your legal rights.
Every Biker Should Take Appropriate Steps to Protect Themselves
There are no laws in Elgin or the state of Illinois that require people to wear helmets while on a bike. Still, it is best for riders of all ages to wear protection while biking.
Helmets function to decrease the risk of head injuries by up to 85 percent. Other protective gear can protect one’s knees, elbows, and skin. While it is true that a driver who causes a bike accident is liable to provide all relevant compensation, they may argue that a victim’s losses would not have been as severe had they been wearing protective gear. A well-versed lawyer at the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd. could explain how taking the simple step of putting on a helmet can protect both a person’s health and legal rights.
Elgin Laws Govern the Safe Operation of Bicycles
Another preventative measure that all bike riders should take is remaining in compliance with all state laws that govern the safe operation of bicycles. Many of these laws concern the proper maintenance of these vehicles. For example, 625 ILCS 5/11-1507 states that people riding a bike at night must use a headlamp and a red rear reflector. Having these articles on a bike helps other parties to see the rider and may combat allegations of shared fault for a collision.
In addition, state law provides that bike riders using public roads must act in the same way as those behind the wheel of motorized vehicles. This means obeying speed limits, stopping at red lights and stop signs, and obeying basic right of way laws. Again, following these rules helps to decrease the frequency of accidents and may serve as evidence that another party was to blame for a crash. A motivated lawyer could explain how taking the above safety precautions when on a bike could help a rider a build better case in the event of an accident.
Call an Elgin Attorney to Learn about the Benefits of Bike Safety and Preventative Measures
People who make the choice to ride a bicycle on public roads should take every available step to protect themselves. This may include wearing appropriate safety gear, such as a helmet. At the same time, you must obey all local traffic laws and the regulations that apply specifically to bike riders. Doing so not only decreases the chances of being in an accident but may also improve your chances of receiving fair compensation for your losses.
A lawyer could provide more data about bicycle safety and preventative measures in Elgin. They are also prepared to take the lead if you believe that another’s negligence has caused your injuries. Reach out to the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd. now to get started.