Cycling in Joliet, Illinois, is not just a way to get around—it’s a lifestyle for many residents and a favorite activity for visitors. But with growing traffic and infrastructure challenges, bicycle accidents remain a real risk. If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident in Joliet, knowing your rights and understanding the legal landscape is crucial.
Bicycling means different things to different riders. For some, it is a simple mode of transportation to get around Chicago in an efficient way, and this is the preferred mode of transport for many messengers in and around Chicago. For others it is a leisurely activity used to slow down the hustle and bustle of day-to-day travel. Still to others bicycling is a high-intensity cardiovascular workout used mainly to burn calories and zip around the town. Whatever your bicycle means to you, it is not viewed the same way by the drivers you pass while pedaling around. To drivers, bicyclists can simply be another hazard on the road, an even smaller hazard than the smart cars zooming past them. And unfortunately, this may lead to serious accidents.
If you have been in a bicycle wreck, don’t hesitate to contact Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. for help. Our attorneys will work tirelessly to ensure you are compensated for any injuries you sustained.
The State of Bicycle Accidents in Joliet, IL
When trying to determine if bicycling is hazardous or if drivers easily notice bicyclists, one need look no further than the statistics compiled each year by the Illinois Department of Transportation. In 2010 there were 1,625 bicycle crashes within the City of Chicago. Five of these resulted in an instant fatality but 150 left riders with incapacitating injuries. Hundreds of other riders were left with injuries that were considered “non-incapacitating.” This problem is certainly more prevalent within the City of Chicago but the suburbs are not immune to accidents. In that same year suburban Cook County saw 748 bicycle crashes, eight of which resulted in immediate fatalities. Even where no fatality resulted, each of these crashes led to a bicyclist being flung from the seat with nothing but the ground to catch them.
Zooming out to all of Illinois, about 1% of traffic crashes involve cyclists, which translated to 2,793 bicycle crashes statewide in a recent year—26 of which were fatal, while 2,689 resulted in significant injuries. These numbers highlight the persistent dangers faced by cyclists in urban settings like Joliet.
Bicycle crashes in Joliet reflect statewide trends—most are preventable, yet they cause significant harm each year. In more recent years, Joliet saw 19 recorded bicycle accidents involving motorists, with 1 resulting in a fatality and 17 causing injuries. Almost 95% of cyclists involved in vehicle crashes sustained either visible injuries or incapacitating harm.
The problem is not isolated to collisions. Personal injuries on Joliet’s streets also come from road hazards, aggressive drivers, and inadequate bike lanes. For many, the consequences are life-changing: medical bills, lost wages, pain, and emotional distress.
Joliet, IL: The City and Its Bicycle Risks
Joliet, situated along the Des Plaines River southwest of Chicago, has grown into a city bustling with entertainment venues like the Rialto Square Theatre, Harrah’s Casino, and a revitalized downtown scene. This growth—and the mix of city streets, suburban roads, and major intersections—means more cars, more cyclists, and unfortunately, more chances for accidents.
Real-World Risks on Joliet’s Streets
In 2023, Joliet reported 16 bicycle accidents, and every single one resulted in injuries. Victims ranged in age from teenagers to seniors, showing that no one is immune. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) data reveals that most accidents involved law-abiding cyclists, yet these riders still found themselves struck by vehicles or caught in poor visibility situations.
Picture a resident cycling along Jefferson Street to grab coffee downtown—suddenly, a distracted driver pulls out from a side street, not seeing the cyclist in time. Or imagine a tourist cruising through the city’s picturesque heritage corridor, only to encounter a driver who fails to yield while making a right turn, causing a painful collision. In each scenario, the city’s unique combination of residential, commercial, and high-traffic roadways turns routine rides into potential danger zones, especially at busy intersections and during rush hours.
Statistics at a Glance
| Year | Bicycle Accidents (Joliet) | Resulted in Injury | Cyclist Fatalities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 19 | 15 | 0 |
| 2023 | 16 | 16 | 0 |
Nearly 95% of Joliet cyclists involved in reported crashes suffer injuries, echoing statewide trends where bicycle versus vehicle collisions most often end with serious harm. Statewide, Illinois saw 2,370 bicycle crashes in 2022. Nationally, more than 130,000 bicyclists are injured and nearly 1,000 killed in crashes every year—a sobering reminder that vigilance and legal support matter.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Joliet
Why do bicycle accidents keep happening—even when cyclists follow the rules? Here are the most frequent causes:
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Distracted Driving: Phones, food, or other in-car distractions take drivers’ eyes off the road.
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Failure to Yield: Whether it’s a car turning left or right, drivers often overlook nearby cyclists at intersections.
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“Dooring” Accidents: Passengers open car doors into the bike lane, giving cyclists no time to react.
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Unsafe Passing: Not leaving at least three feet of space when passing, as required by law.
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Poor Road Conditions: Joliet’s heavy winters, frequent construction, and aging infrastructure contribute to hazardous potholes or debris.
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Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drug use by drivers (or cyclists) dramatically increases accident risks.
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Visibility Issues: Cyclists riding at night or in low-light areas may not be seen by drivers.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Joliet
Here’s what every cyclist should remember:
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Seek Medical Help Immediately: Even if injuries seem minor, symptoms can worsen due to adrenaline or delayed trauma.
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Report the Accident: Call the Joliet Police Department and ensure an officer documents the scene.
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Preserve Evidence: Take photos of injuries, your bicycle, the vehicle, and the surrounding scene.
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Get Witness Information: Collect contact details from any bystanders.
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Do Not Admit Fault: Stick to the facts—leave discussion of blame to the investigators.
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Contact a Bicycle Accident Lawyer: An experienced local attorney can help secure the compensation you need for lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering.
Joliet Laws That Protect Cyclists
Illinois law is on the side of cyclists in many ways. Drivers must:
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Yield to cyclists as they would to vehicles.
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Maintain a minimum three-foot buffer when overtaking or passing a bike.
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Use warnings and drive with due care around all non-motorized road users.
Violations can lead to severe legal consequences—including misdemeanors or felonies if a cyclist suffers major injuries. Joliet also mirrors state cycling statutes, offering robust legal protection for victims.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What if I was partially at fault in a Joliet bicycle accident?
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A: Illinois follows a modified comparative fault rule. Even if you share some blame, you can still recover damages—just reduced by your percentage of fault.
Q: I was hit by a car while cycling near the Harrah’s Casino. What should I do?
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A: Prioritize your health, report the crash, collect witness information, and contact an attorney. The busy streets near major attractions often see higher accident rates due to increased traffic flow.
Q: Are drivers always at fault in “dooring” accidents?
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A: Typically yes, if a passenger opens a door into the cyclist’s path without checking first, Illinois law holds them liable.
Q: Can I get compensation if road hazards caused my crash?
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A: Possibly. If poor maintenance (like potholes or construction debris) played a role, the responsible party—sometimes even the city—may be held liable.
Q: What kinds of damages can I claim?
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A: You can seek recovery for medical expenses, lost wages, bike repairs, pain and suffering, long-term rehab, and more.
Why Choose Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C.?
Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C., with offices serving the Joliet area, has earned a 4.9-star rating based on more than 250 client reviews. Their award-winning, approachable attorneys are recognized for maximizing case results, offering seamless guidance, and delivering attentive, compassionate service—even across time zones. Clients praise the team for frequent updates, strong negotiation skills, and for treating every case with urgency and care.
Take Action Now
Many bicyclists may feel powerless in the aftermath of a serious crash. In reality, however, those injured have the right to recover compensation from those at fault. A personal injury attorney can take a look at the specifics of your case, and help advise you on the best course of action.
If you find yourself involved in a bicycling accident, do not hesitate to reach out to the attorneys at Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C.. We will provide you with a free consultation, and, using our years of experience, as well as the help of accident reconstructionists, doctors, and other expert witnesses, we will ensure you are justly compensated. Call us today for assistance.
You deserve a legal team who knows the city’s streets and courts. Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C., fights for justice for victims and families—recovering lost wages, medical costs, and compensation for pain and suffering.
Contact Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. for a free consultation. Get the help you need to recover and rebuild
