Barrington Hills Bicycle Ordinance

Apparently Barrington Hills, Illinois, has made a clear effort to crack down on cyclists. They recently passed two ordinances aimed at keeping cyclists in check. The first new ordinance requires cyclists within Barrington Hills to ride single file. Cyclists riding two abreast (or more) in Barrington Hills risk being cited with a violation of the statute, and cyclists involved in accidents while riding two abreast can expect their violation of this statute to be used against them in any civil action arising out of that accident.

The second ordinance states that it shall be unlawful for any person to operate a bicycle upon any public roadway in a manner which is negligent or creates a risk of bodily injury or damage to or loss of property. If you find yourself asking, "What does this mean?" you may rest assured you are not alone. The language of this statute is vague, and I find it hard to interpret what actions would be considered negligent. I anticipate that this statute will mostly come into play when police are looking to hand out some tickets or lay blame after an accident.

My source is here.

Pedestrian v. Bicycle Accidents

Bicycles are supposed to obey the rules of the road. Like drivers, sometimes cyclists don't always ride safely or legally. If a pedestrian is injured due to the negligent acts of a bicyclist, the pedestrian should treat the accident as any other accident. Call the police and follow the same steps outlined for what to do when you are involved in an accident.

In such an instance the bicyclist may be personally responsible for any injury caused. There may be insurance coverage that would be activated by the cyclist's negligence. Coverage in such accidents is most typically found through a renter's or homeowner's policy that offers liability coverage.

Bicyclists are required to remain at the scene, exchange information, and render aid when necessary. If the bicyclist flees the scene of the accident try to get as much identifying information as you can about the cyclist. Treat the accident as a hit and run, and report it to the police accordingly.

Some people are under the mistaken impression that it is unlikely that a rogue cyclist poses much of a danger to pedestrians. That is not the case. While the threat posed by a cyclist is somewhat less imposing than that of a car, the threat of danger or injury still exists. In my experience, brain and head injuries are fairly common in bicycle/pedestrian accidents becuase pedestrians commonly hit their head when they are knocked to the ground. Such injuries can be debilitating, and I have seen many cases where pedestrians have endured severe and permanent injuries after being hit by a cyclist.

Cyclists who disregard the safety of pedestrians should be held accountable for their actions. I would urge pedestrians who are hit by bicyclists to call me to discuss their accident to determine their legal options for recovery or recourse.

"Legal Cycling" talks by Lawyer Jim Freeman

Thanks to the Chicago Cycling Club for giving me an opportunity to educate cyclists about important safety and legal issues affecting cyclists. On February 10, 2009, I spoke on the topic of bicycles and the law at the REI located at 1466 N. Halsted. The presentation addressed the laws that apply to bicycles, insurance considerations for cyclists, typical types of accidents, common injuries and what to do after an accident.

On March 5, 2008, I'll be addressing the Wheeling Wheelmen on similar topics. For information contact the Wheeling Wheelmen.

Please contact me if you or your organization has an event at which you would like me to speak.