Posted On: February 6, 2010 by Zneimer & Zneimer, P.C.

Chicago Laws That Help Bicyclists

The city of Chicago's bike safety ordinance provides for a $150 fine for drivers who endanger Chicago bicyclists in any of the following ways:

1. Driving in a bike lane
2. Parking in a bike lane
3. Turning into a cyclist's path
4. Opening a car door on cyclist
5. Passing within three feet of a cyclist

The fines jump to $500 if the bicyclist is injured. The laws are to encourage drivers to watch out for bicyclists on the road. Bicyclists can also, of course, can make a civil claim for money damages against the negligent driver.