I retained Paul Padda after firing my other lawyer. Best decision I ever made! He did a fantastic job for me in handling my personal injury case. Always courteous and cares about his clients. Great office staff that cares about people. With Mr. Padda, I felt comfortable every step of the way. My first choice for a lawyer!
Paul Padda is a great attorney that cares about his clients. I hired him and was impressed. Very good in court and handled my case really well. He took the time to understand my case and cared about me as a person. He would be the first person I call if I need an attorney again.
Overview
You Followed the Rules. They Just Drove Through Them.
Riding a bike in Chicago—whether you are commuting down Milwaukee Avenue, navigating the chaos of the Loop, or enjoying a weekend ride on the Lakefront Trail—is a battle for space. You know the risks of riding in the city, and you take them seriously. But no amount of high-vis gear or hand signals can protect you when a driver is texting, speeding to beat a light, or opens their door without looking.
The Reality of Being Hit in Chicago
When a cyclist is hit by a car, the aftermath is often insulting. The driver claims you “came out of nowhere.” The police report might suggest you should have been further to the right. And the insurance company? They will try to use Illinois’ “modified comparative negligence” laws to blame you for your own injuries just to save a few dollars.
We Don’t Accept “I Didn’t See Him” as an Excuse.
At Paul Padda Law, we know that “I didn’t see him” is usually code for “I wasn’t looking.” We understand the specific hazards of Chicago cycling—from “dooring” accidents in Wicker Park to right-hook turns in the suburbs. We know that Illinois law protects cyclists as equal users of the road, and we aggressively enforce those rights against drivers who think they own the pavement.
Why Injured Cyclists Choose Paul Padda Law
We do more than just file lawsuits. We understand that for many of our clients, a bike isn’t just a toy—it’s their primary mode of transportation.
- Property Damage: We fight to get full value for your damaged bike and gear, not just the depreciated “Blue Book” value the insurer offers.
- Medical Care: We help you navigate the confusing world of medical billing and liens so you can get the surgery or therapy you need without drowning in debt.
- Fighting Bias: We know how to dismantle the “reckless cyclist” narrative that defense lawyers love to use.
Your Recovery Is Our Only Goal
If you are dealing with broken bones, road rash, or a head injury, you shouldn’t be fighting an insurance adjuster on the phone. Call us today at (312) 702-7000. We handle bicycle injury cases across the entire Chicago metro area—from Evanston to Joliet—on a contingency basis. You pay nothing unless we win. Let us handle the fight so you can get back on the road.
The Leader of Your Recovery Team
"Being a lawyer allows me to be a voice for the voiceless."
- Paul Padda, J.D.
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Table of Contents
- Chicago Rideshare Accident Attorney
- Chicago Premises Liability Lawyer
- Chicago Federal Litigation Lawyers
- Chicago Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
- Chicago Dog Bite Lawyer | Paul Padda Law
- Boating Accident Lawyer Chicago
- Back and Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer in Chicago
- Construction Defect Attorney in Chicago
- Aviation Accident Lawyer in Chicago
- Chicago Employment Lawyers
- Chicago Construction Accident Lawyer
- Chicago Workers Compensation Lawyer
- Chicago Sexual Harassment Lawyer
- Chicago Workplace Retaliation Lawyer
- Chicago Truck Accident Lawyer
- Chicago T-Bone Accident Lawyer
- Chicago Uninsured Motorist Lawyer
- Slip and Fall Accident Attorneys Chicago
- Chicago Swimming Pool Accident Lawyer
- Chicago Brain Injury Attorney
- Chicago VA Medical Malpractice Attorneys
- Chicago Whiplash Injury Lawyer
- Chicago Qui Tam Whistleblower Attorney
- Chicago Personal Injury Lawyers
- Las Vegas Personal Injury Lawyers
- Las Vegas Car Accident FAQ’s: Answers from Your Recovery Team
- Chicago Car Accident FAQ’s: Answers from Your Legal Recovery Team
- Chicago Wrongful Death Attorney
- Chicago Medical Malpractice Lawyer
- Chicago Brain Injury Lawyer
- Catastrophic Injury Lawyer Chicago
- Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
- Las Vegas Aviation Accident Lawyer
- Las Vegas Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer
- Bicycle Injury
- Boating Accident
- Las Vegas Brain Injury Lawyer
- Las Vegas Car Accident Lawyer
- Catastrophic Injuries
- Construction Defect
- Las Vegas Dog Bite Lawyer
- Employment Law
- Federal Litigation
- Medical Malpractice
- Las Vegas Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
- Nursing Home Abuse
- Premises Liability
- Product Liability
- Truck Accidents
- Las Vegas Workplace Injury Lawyer
- Wrongful Death
- Other Practice Areas
- Chicago Car Accident Lawyer
Bicycle Accident Statistics Across the United States
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) over 1,000 bicyclists lost their lives in traffic accidents during 2022 across the United States. While bicycles account for only one percent of all trips taken, almost three percent of all roadway fatalities involve cyclists. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the highest percentage of cyclist fatalities involves individuals aged 55-69. These statistics exclude thousands of bicyclists who sustain serious injuries but survive accidents with motor vehicles. Meanwhile, roadways continue to expand and traffic speeds continue to increase. In urban centers like Chicago with year-round cycling activity and dense traffic patterns, bicyclists face heightened risks compared to less populated areas.
Illinois implemented a law requiring motorists to maintain at least three feet of distance when passing bicycles on roadways. While this legislation has helped reduce potential fatalities, the fundamental truth remains that cyclists continue facing significant danger on Chicago streets and must exercise constant vigilance.
Paul Padda explains how we handle cases like yours
Protecting The Rights of Chicago Cyclists
As experienced Chicago bicycle accident lawyers, we witness devastating injuries daily resulting from driver carelessness and negligence. Many of these accidents produce life-altering consequences. This drives our commitment to representing cyclists’ rights and to ensuring that they receive fair compensation for their injuries.
As a team of skilled bicycle accident attorneys in Chicago, the legal professionals at Paul Padda Law are fully prepared to hold negligent and careless motorists accountable for the injuries they cause and the lives they impact.
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When Cyclist Meets Motor Vehicle
Cyclists face extreme vulnerability in accident situations involving motor vehicles. Exposure to collisions with cars and trucks can lead to catastrophic injuries, including:
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents stem from various negligent behaviors by motorists, including:
- Rolling stops where drivers fail to completely stop at intersections
- Rear-end collisions with cyclists
- Poorly timed crossings at intersections
- Unsafe passing maneuvers
- Drunk and impaired driving
- Excessive speeding
- Driver fatigue and drowsiness
- Adverse weather conditions reducing visibility
- Delivery and commercial truck accidents obstructing views of pedestrians and cyclists
- Turning or merging accidents when motorists look away from the r Backing into pedestrians or cyclists
- Dooring accidents when vehicle occupants open doors into cyclist paths
- Sideswipe collisions
- Failure to check blind spots for bicyclists
- Distracted driving involving phones, navigation systems, and other devices
All these scenarios can result in serious injuries and permanent disabilities. If you’ve been involved in an accident with a motorist while cycling, you owe it to yourself to consult an experienced personal injury lawyer in Chicago. A knowledgeable attorney will help you understand your rights to compensation for your injuries.
Driver Distraction and Resulting Injuries
Unfortunately, numerous injuries on today’s roads stem from driver distraction. In fact, distracted driving represents the most common cause of bicycle accidents occurring during daylight hours.
With society’s increasing reliance on technology, driver distraction has emerged as a leading cause of serious accidents and injuries in Illinois. This extends beyond cell phone use and texting. As experienced Chicago bicycle accident attorneys, we collaborate with accident reconstruction specialists and investigators capable of proving driver distraction in accident cases.
Anything diverting a driver’s attention from the road qualifies as a distraction. Examples include:
- Programming GPS or navigation systems
- Changing radio stations or adjusting audio controls
- Operating other electronic devices
- Eating and drinking while driving
- Conversing with passengers
- Texting and phone use while driving
- Drowsy driving
- Reading materials including maps
- Personal grooming activities
- Daydreaming or mental distraction
- Rubbernecking at other incidents
When a driver’s attention shifts away from the road, cyclists face increased risk. An experienced Chicago accident attorney ensures injured parties receive fair compensation for injuries caused by distracted drivers.
Cyclist Responsibilities Under Illinois Law
Motorists aren’t always at fault for bicycle accidents. Cyclists must follow specific rules ensuring everyone’s safety when sharing roadways and must adhere to the Illinois traffic laws when sharing roads with motor vehicles. These regulations serve to protect both motorists and cyclists. Key requirements include:
- Cyclists must not interfere with motor vehicle traffic flow
- Cyclists must obey all traffic regulations and signals
- Cyclists should ride as far right as practicable on roadways
- When available, cyclists must use designated bike lanes
- Cyclists must employ appropriate hand signals when turning or stopping
- Cyclists must travel in the same direction as other traffic
- Bicycles must be equipped with front white lights visible from 500 feet
- Bicycles must have a rear reflector or light visible from 100 feet
- Conversely, motorists must also comply with laws regarding cyclist proximity, such as:
- Motorists must yield right-of-way to bicyclists at intersectiMotorists must allow at least three feet of clearance when passing a cyclist
- Motorists must exercise particular caution around children and inexperienced cyclists
- Motorists must check blind spots before turning or changing lanes
If you’ve sustained injuries as a cyclist, consulting an experienced Chicago bicycle accident lawyer is critical to ensuring fair compensation for your injuries.
Talk to a Chicago Bicycle Accident Injury Lawyer
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Frequently Asked Questions About Chicago Bicycle Accidents
Is it legal to ride my bike on the sidewalk in Chicago?
Generally, no. According to the Chicago Municipal Code (9-52-020), riding a bicycle on the sidewalk is illegal for anyone aged 12 or older, unless the sidewalk is specifically marked as a designated bike route. However, this rule varies in surrounding suburbs like Evanston or Oak Park. If you were hit while riding on a sidewalk, it complicates your case, but it does not necessarily mean you cannot recover damages—especially if the driver was reckless. We analyze the specific local ordinance where your crash happened.
I was "doored" by a parked car. Is the driver at fault?
Yes. In Illinois, "dooring" accidents are almost always the driver’s fault. Illinois law prohibits opening a vehicle door on the side of moving traffic unless it is reasonably safe to do so. The driver has a legal duty to check their mirror and look for cyclists before opening their door. We hold them accountable for this negligence, even if they claim they "didn't see you."
I wasn't wearing a helmet. Does that ruin my injury claim?
No. Illinois state law does not require adult cyclists to wear helmets. While insurance defense lawyers often try to argue that your injuries are your own fault for not wearing one, your failure to wear a helmet is not considered negligence per se. We fight to ensure the jury focuses on the driver’s bad driving, not your personal safety choices.
What if the driver who hit me drove away (Hit-and-Run)?
Hit-and-run accidents are unfortunately common in Chicago. If the driver is never found, you can often file a claim under your own auto insurance policy’s Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. Even though you were on a bike, you are a "covered person" under your car insurance policy. We help you navigate this process to ensure your own insurance company pays what they owe you.
Do I have to use the bike lane if there is one?
Cyclists are generally expected to use the bike lane, but you are legally allowed to leave it for safety reasons. Common exceptions include: avoiding debris (glass, potholes), passing another cyclist, preparing for a left turn, or avoiding a vehicle that is illegally parked in the bike lane. If a driver hits you while you are merging out of an unsafe bike lane, they are typically still liable.
Who pays for my damaged bike and gear?
The at-fault driver’s property damage liability insurance is responsible for repairing or replacing your bicycle. For serious cyclists, a "Blue Book" value often isn't enough. We work with professional bike shops to get a specialized quote that covers the true cost of replacing your carbon frame, custom components, and expensive riding kit (helmet, jersey, clips), which can easily total thousands of dollars.
How does Illinois' "comparative negligence" affect my settlement?
Illinois follows a "modified comparative negligence" rule. This means you can still recover compensation as long as you were less than 51% at fault for the crash. However, your payout is reduced by your percentage of fault. If a jury awards you $100,000 but decides you were 20% at fault (perhaps for not having a light at night), you would receive $80,000. We fight to minimize any fault attributed to you.
What is the statute of limitations for a bike accident in Illinois?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against a negligent driver. However, if the accident involved a city vehicle (like a CTA bus or a City of Chicago maintenance truck), the deadline is much shorter—often just one year. Do not wait to call a lawyer, or you could lose your right to sue entirely.
Securing the Professional Representation You Need
If you’ve been injured in an accident while cycling, you need guidance from an experienced personal injury lawyer in Chicago.
At Paul Padda Law, we will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your accident, accurately determine your claim’s value, and negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to ensure fair compensation. If reasonable settlement offers aren’t forthcoming, we’ll present your case in court to secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Under Illinois law, injury victims usually have two years from their accident date to file personal injury claims, or they permanently lose their right to compensation. This statute of limitations makes timely consultation with an attorney essential. Our bicycle accident lawyers understand how these deadlines apply to specific circumstances as well as how any applicable exceptions might apply.
Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule in personal injury cases. This means you can still recover damages even if you bear partial responsibility for an accident, provided your fault is not 50 percent or more. Your compensation will be reduced proportionally to your degree of fault. For example, if you’re found 20 percent at fault, you can recover 80 percent of your total damages. If you’re found 50 percent or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation.
Potential compensation in bicycle injury cases may include:
- All medical expenses and hospital bills
- Future medical treatment and rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages and income during recovery
- Diminished future earning capacity
- Bain and suffering
- Emotional distress and psychological trauma
- Property damage to your bicycle and equipment
- Permanent disability accommodations
Wrongful death damages when fatal accidents occur. If you’re a cyclist who has been involved in an accident, we may be able to help you. Call Paul Padda Law today at (312) 702-7000 for a free consultation or contact us through our website. Our goal is helping you return to the path of recovery—emotionally, physically, and financially.