Chicago Accident Lawyer Blog

May 5, 2023

Driving and Bicycle Lanes in Chicago

Chicago is a city that says it loves its bikes. Chicago has over 1,800 miles of bike lanes and paths. But with so many cyclists on the road riding alongside automobiles, it is important to keep in mind the rules of the road and to share the space safely.

The Chicago personal injury attorneys of Zneimer & Zneimer have seen an increase in injuries to bikers. Many of these injuries could have been prevented if drivers and bicyclists keep certain safety rules in mind.

Drivers should obey the speed limit, especially in areas with bike lanes. Bicyclists are more vulnerable to injury in a collision and their injuries tend to be very serious. Therefore, drivers must look for cyclists before turning or changing lanes. Additionally, drivers should signal their intention to give cyclists time to react to the automobile movements. Chicago law requires drivers to leave at least three feet of space when passing a cyclist, to give the cyclists enough room to maneuver safely. Drivers should not park in a bike lane as this is both illegal and dangerous for bicyclists. Continue reading

April 21, 2023

E-Bikes in Bike Lanes: A Closer Look at the Safety Implications of Illinois’ E-Bike Law

by Zneimer & Zneimer, P.C.

As e-bikes gain popularity in Chicago, questions surrounding their safety in bike lanes alongside traditional bicycles arise. As personal injury attorneys in Chicago, we have seen accidents involving e-bikes increase, particularly when they share bike lanes with traditional bicycles. Here we will take a closer look at Illinois’ e-bike law and explore the safety concerns that come with e-bike usage in bike lanes, on bicycle paths, and on sidewalks.

E-bikes, or electric bicycles, are equipped with electric motors that assist the rider in pedaling. In an effort to regulate e-bikes and ensure safety for all cyclists, Illinois has introduced a law amending the Illinois Vehicle Code. The law classifies e-bikes into three categories based on their speed and motor assistance capabilities:

Class 1 low-speed electric bicycle: Motor assistance only when the rider is pedaling, ceasing assistance at 20 mph.

April 20, 2023

Weighting for Clarity in the Courtroom – The Balancing Act of Defining Low-Speed Gas Bicycles

by Zneimer & Zneimer, P.C.

In personal injury cases and the legal field in general, it is crucial to look for and understand the relevant definitions. This is because the precise meaning of words and phrases can greatly impact the interpretation of laws, statutes, and court decisions. By thoroughly examining and understanding the definitions, the Chicago personal injury attorneys of Zneimer & Zneimer can make more accurate and persuasive arguments to support our clients’ claims. For example, not long ago, the Illinois Supreme Court had to face the issue whether the definition of “low speed gas bicycle” is constitutionally vague and whether a bicycle that does not meet the definition as in fact not a bicycle.

The case arose when State of Illinois charged a bicyclists with driving a motor vehicle with a revoked license. The defendant, John Plank was driving a gas bicycle and he argued that his bicycle was not a motor vehicle. A police officer observed John Plank riding a motorized bicycle down a Douglas County road at a speed of 26 miles per hour. According to the officer’s testimony, motorized bikes were allowed to travel up to 19 miles per hour, and upon reaching 20 miles per hour, they require a valid driver’s license, insurance, and registration. The officer described Plank’s bicycle as powered by “a weed-eater motor” and noted that it was not registered in Illinois. Although the bicycle had pedals in addition to its gasoline motor, the officer testified that he did not see Plank pedaling. The police officer signaled for Plank to stop, and Plank admitted that his license was revoked.

The Illinois Vehicle Code prohibits anyone with a revoked driver’s license from driving a “motor vehicle.” 625 ILCS 5/6-303(a) The code defines “low-speed gas bicycle” as a “2 or 3-wheeled device with fully operable pedals and a gasoline motor of less than one horsepower, whose maximum speed on a paved level surface, when powered solely by such a motor while ridden by an operator who weighs 170 pounds, is less than 20 miles per hour.” Id. § 1-140.15.

April 19, 2023

Paws and Laws: Understanding Dog Bite Laws and Safeguarding Your Rights

by Zneimer & Zneimer, P.C.

Dog bites can be a serious problem for children and adults alike. According to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dogs bite more than 4 million people each year in the United States. Some breeds are more likely to cause injury or death from severe dog bites and fatal dog attacks than others. Here are some of the most dangerous dog breeds for children:

– Pit bulls, pit bull terriers, or pit bull type dogs – this can include dogs originally bred for dog fights like the American pit bull terrier, American Staffordshire terrier, Staffordshire bull terrier, or any other mix of this breed

– Rottweilers – a large powerful breed

April 19, 2023

Electric Bikes Becoming More Common

by Zneimer & Zneimer, P.C.

Electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular as a mode of transportation in Chicago due to their eco-friendliness and convenience. However, they can be dangerous if not used properly. According to a study by Reuters, there were 3,075 e-bike injuries in the US in 2018 alone.

If you’re involved in an electric bike accident and you’re not at fault, you may be able to recover financially for your injuries. Some of the damages that you may be able to recover are compensatory damages that include anything lost due to the accident including payment for medical bills current and future.

If you’re considering purchasing or renting an electric bike, it’s important to keep in mind that they can reach high speeds. This means that if you’re involved in an accident while riding one, it can be more severe than if you were on a regular bike. If you’re ever involved in an electric bike accident and need legal assistance, the personal injury lawyers of Zneimer and Zneimer may be able to help you.

March 31, 2023

Impaired driving causes avoidable accidents

by Zneimer & Zneimer, P.C.

Car accidents can be devastating, and the aftermath can be overwhelming. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, it is important to seek legal representation right away. At Zneimer & Zneimer, our experienced car accident attorneys are dedicated to helping clients receive the compensation they deserve.

Impaired driving is a leading cause of car accidents in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2019, 10,142 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes. This represents 28% of all traffic-related deaths in the United States. In addition to alcohol, drug-impaired driving is also a growing problem. In 2019, 14.8 million people reported driving under the influence of illicit drugs.

At Zneimer & Zneimer, we understand the devastating impact that impaired driving accidents can have on victims and their families. Our attorneys have years of experience representing clients in car accident cases involving impaired drivers. We will investigate the incident thoroughly, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to make sure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Compensation for car accident injuries can include medical expenses, lost wages, and damages for pain and suffering. In cases involving impaired driving, victims may also be entitled to punitive damages, which are designed to punish the at-fault driver and deter others from engaging in similar conduct.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, it is important to seek legal representation right away. Our attorneys are available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide you with the support you need during this difficult time. Continue reading

March 30, 2023

Personal Injuries from a Dog Bite

by Zneimer & Zneimer, P.C.

Dog bite injuries can be devastating, both physically and emotionally. At the Chicago injury firm Zneimer & Zneimer PC, our experienced attorneys understand the pain and trauma that can come with a dog bite, and we are dedicated to helping clients receive the compensation they deserve under Illinois law.

Under the Illinois Animal Control Act, dog owners are strictly liable for any injuries caused by their dogs. This means that if a dog bites someone, the owner is responsible for paying damages, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression or not. It is important to note that the Act defines “owner” broadly, and can include not only the dog’s owner but also anyone who has control or custody of the dog.

Complications from dog bites can be severe, and may include infection, nerve damage, scarring, and disfigurement. In some cases, a victim may require multiple surgeries or long-term medical care. Our attorneys understand the long-term impact that dog bite injuries can have on a victim’s life, and we are committed to helping our clients receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries.

March 29, 2023

Dog owners and responsibilities for injuries

by Zneimer & Zneimer, P.C.

Dog bites can result in serious injuries and inflammation that can cause significant pain and suffering. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Chicago, it is important to seek medical attention right away.

The dog bite lawyers of Zneimer & Zneimer P.C. have seen the physical and emotional trauma that can come with a dog bite injury. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping clients receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries.

Dog bite injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to severe lacerations, puncture wounds, and fractures. In addition to the initial injury, dog bites can also lead to infections and inflammation, which can cause significant pain and require surgery. Some common infections that can occur as a result of a dog bite include tetanus, rabies, and cellulitis. Inflammation is also a common result of a dog bite injury. Inflammation occurs when the body’s immune system responds to an injury or infection, causing redness, swelling, and pain. In some cases, inflammation can become chronic, leading to long-term pain and discomfort.

March 1, 2023

Impaired Drivers and Responsibility

by Zneimer & Zneimer, P.C.

Our personal injury lawyers handle many accidents caused by impaired driver. Many impairments result from intoxicating substances recently taken or still lingering in the driver’s body. According to Illinois Secretary of State statistics, in 2020

254 people were killed in alcohol-related crashes, which was approximately 21% of the 1,195 total crash fatalities
20,131 DUI arrests were recorded by the Secretary of State’s office

February 13, 2023

Bicycling in the City

by Zneimer & Zneimer, P.C.

Bicycling is an increasingly popular mode of transportation in Chicago and many other cities around the world. There are many benefits that bicycling offers, including improved health and environmental friendliness, there is a downside to this form of transportation: personal injury.

The Chicago bicycle attorneys of Zneimer & Zneimer have seen an increase in bicycling accidents. Unlike an accident that includes two vehicles, even a low speed accident involving bicyclists can result in more serious injury or even death. In 2018, the Chicago Department of Transportation reported that there were 1,187 crashes involving bicycles, with 6 fatal accidents. This number has continued to rise in recent years, and it’s important for both cyclists and drivers to understand the risks involved in order to prevent accidents from occurring.

The most common cause of bicycle accidents in Chicago is due to drivers not paying attention to cyclists. There are increasing sources of distractions to drivers that results in distracted driving. Drivers may be distracted by their phones, other passengers, or simply not looking for cyclists. Additionally, some drivers may not be familiar with the rules of the road as they apply to cyclists, and may therefore make mistakes that can lead to accidents.