The "hit-and-run" occurred on the morning of November 17, 2011. The victim was commuting to his job via bicycle through the far Northwest Side of Chicago. The bicyclist was traveling northbound on Central Avenue when an SUV, also traveling northbound, attempted to pass him just before the intersection with Elston Avenue. This is often referred to as a "right hook" bicycle accident. According to the police report, witnesses saw the SUV hit the bicyclist from the side knocking him headfirst into the ground. The victim not only smashed his head on the pavement but also sustained extensive bruises and lacerations to his face, hands, arms, and legs.
In an incredible twist, witnesses reported to police that instead of attempting to assist the obviously injured bicyclists, the driver of the SUV and a passenger exited the car after the collision and "started yelling" at the victim while he was on the ground. After concluding this verbal assault the driver fled the scene, but thanks to information from eyewitnesses who called 911, the Chicago Police Department was later able to locate the driver.
Under both Illinois state law (625 ILCS 5/11-703) and the Chicago Municipal Code (9-36-010(c)), the driver of a motor vehicle is required to leave a "safe distance" of at least 3 feet when passing a bicyclist traveling in the same direction. Any driver who physically hits a bicyclist while attempting to pass on the left, as the SUV driver allegedly did in this case, has clearly violated both Illinois and Chicago laws.
If you have been the victim of an accident or collision by a "hit-and-run" driver you may be uncertain about what steps to take to ensure that the driver who has injured you is held responsible. The Illinois Bicycle Lawyers at Keating Law Offices are prepared to assist you and to answer your questions about what to do next. Our attorneys have experience representing victims of "hit-and-runs" and are ready to help you seek justice against any driver who has injured you.
If you have any questions regarding this port or an issue involving Illinois personal injury law, Illinois Bicycle Attorney Mike Keating is available to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please contact Mike anytime by calling 312-208-7702 or emaling him at MKeating@KeatingLegal.com. All emails and phone calls are returned promptly. All initial consultations are confidential and free. Keating Law Offices handles all types of personal injury cases throughout Illinois.
