Chicago's Bicycle Community Mourns The Loss Of Advocate Riley O'Neill

​Chicago’s bicycling community is mourning the tragic and preventable death of Riley O’Neil, a 35-year-old Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) planner who dedicated his career to making Chicago’s streets safer for people who bike, walk, and use public transportation. Tragically, O’Neil was killed in a crash involving two motor vehicles on June 5, 2026. The crash occured while Riley was riding his bicycle in the Bridgeport neighborhood after a motorist opened a vehicle door directly into his path on South Halsted Street and he was then struck by an oncoming semi-truck.

According to witness accounts and reports, O’Neil was traveling in the marked bike lane on the 3200 block of South Halsted Street when the driver of a parked vehicle suddenly opened a door into the bike lane. O’Neil attempted to avoid the door but struck it and was thrown into the roadway, where he was subsequently struck by a passing semi-truck. 

The loss is especially devastating because Riley O’Neil was not only an experienced cyclist, but a transportation professional whose life's work focused on improving bicycle infrastructure and safety throughout Chicago. O’Neil served on CDOT’s Complete Streets team and previously led the City’s bicycle parking program, helping expand bicycle accessibility throughout Chicago. Colleagues described him as a passionate advocate who worked tirelessly to make Chicago safer for everyone who uses its streets. The fact that this crash occurred not only in a marked and dedicated bike lane, but the Chicago Police Department's 9th District police station is located next to the crash scene. 

The Danger of Dooring in Chicago

Dooring crashes remain one of the most serious threats facing Chicago bicyclists. A "dooring" occurs when the occupant of a parked vehicle opens a door into the path of a bicyclist without first checking whether it is safe to do so. For bicyclists traveling alongside parked vehicles, a suddenly opened door can leave virtually no time to react. Riders may strike the door directly or be forced into moving traffic while attempting to avoid it.

Illinois law and Chicago municipal ordinances clearly prohibit this conduct. The Chicago Police Department issued multiple citations to the motorist who opened the car door into the path of Riley O'Neil. 

Section 9-80-035 of the Chicago Municipal Code provides:

"No person shall open the door of a vehicle on the side available to moving traffic unless and until it is reasonably safe to do so and can be done without interfering with the movement."

The Duty of Due Care: A 45-Year-Old Law Designed to Protect Illinois Bicyclists

As bicycle ridership continues to grow throughout Chicago and across Illinois, much attention has been focused on new legislation designed to improve safety for people riding bicycles. Protected bike lanes, safer intersection designs, lower speed limits, and enhanced traffic enforcement have all become part of the conversation.

What many people do not realize, however, is that one of the strongest legal protections for bicyclists in Illinois is not new at all. In fact, one of the most explicit laws protecting bicyclists has been on the books for nearly 45 years.

Illinois Recognized the Need to Protect Bicyclists in 1981

On August 12, 1981, Public Act 82-132 became law when it amended the Illinois Vehicle Code to expressly require motorists to exercise caution around people riding bicycles.

The law provides:

"Every driver of a vehicle shall exercise due care to avoid colliding with any person operating a bicycle or other device propelled by human power…and shall exercise proper precaution upon observing any child or any obviously confused, incapacitated or intoxicated person."

This language was significant because it placed an affirmative legal duty on motorists. The law did not merely suggest that drivers be careful around bicyclists. It required them to exercise "due care." Today, this protection is codified in Section 11-1003.1 of the Illinois Vehicle Code.

Chicago Adopted the Same Protection for Bicyclists

Nearly a decade later, the City of Chicago reinforced this same principle by incorporating similar language into its Municipal Code.

Section 9-40-160 of the Chicago Municipal Code states:

"Every driver of a vehicle shall exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian, or any person operating a bicycle or other device propelled."

Truck Drivers Are Also Regulated By Federal Law

The second vehicle involved in the crash was a semi-truck travelling on Halsted Street. While the actions of the driver that doored the bicyclist have been the focus, questions remain regarding the interaction between the bicyclist and the semi-truck prior to the collision. The driver of this second vehicle also had the duties to exercise due care around the bicyclist and to keep a proper lookout for all traffic on Halsted Street, including bicycles in the Halsted Street bike lane. 

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations provide that all drivers follow the local laws and requirements, in this case the laws of both Illinois at a state level and Chicago at a local level. 49 CFR 392.2 states as follows: 

“Every commercial motor vehicle must be operated in accordance with the laws, ordinances, and regulations of the jurisdiction in which it is being operated. However, if a regulation of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration imposes a higher standard of care than that law, ordinance or regulation, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulation must be complied with.”

Riley O'Neill's Life and Work Honored

The Chicago bicycle community mourns the loss of Riley O'Neill. Riley O'Neill was by all accounts a selfless advocate and leader. A fellow CDOT employee asked that the bike racks he helped place throughout the city be known as "Riley Racks." The advocacy group Bike Grid Now is hosting a Bike Jam + Vigil in Riley O'Neil's honor on Monday, June 8th. ​

Pedal for Progress: The 2026 Bike Commuter Challenge Sponsored by Keating Law Offices

May is officially Bike Month in Chicago, and there is no better time to start riding than during the Bike Commuter Challenge sponsored by Keating Law Offices. As Chicago bicycle attorneys and advocates for safer streets, Keating Law Offices is proud to once again support one of Chicagoland’s most important cycling events.

The Bike Commuter Challenge runs from Monday, May 11 through Sunday, June 7, 2026, bringing together riders, workplaces, and communities across the Chicago area to promote healthier transportation, safer streets, and a stronger bicycle commuting culture. The Challenge is organized by the Active Transportation Alliance Bike Commuter Challenge, one of the Midwest’s leading advocacy initiatives for safer walking, bicycling, and public transit.

For Keating Law Offices, sponsoring the Bike Commuter Challenge is more than community involvement—it is part of the firm’s ongoing commitment to protecting vulnerable roadway users throughout Chicago and Illinois.

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What is the Bike Commuter Challenge?

The Bike Commuter Challenge sponsored by Keating Law Offices is a month-long bicycling competition where Chicagoland organizations compete to see who can earn the most points by riding their bikes for work-related trips. The Challenge is completely free to participate in and encourages riders of all skill levels to get involved.

Participants simply register, ride their bikes, log their trips, and watch the points add up. Riders do not need to be experienced bike commuters to participate. Organizers provide resources to help new riders feel comfortable commuting by bicycle throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.

According to the Active Transportation Alliance, riders can earn points for:

• Biking to and from work
• Participating in Challenge-related events
• Encouraging coworkers to ride
• Using multimodal transportation options like CTA and Metra in combination with bicycling

The Bike Commuter Challenge also serves a larger purpose throughout Chicago and Illinois. Every bicycle commute demonstrates growing demand for safer roadway infrastructure, protected bike lanes, traffic calming measures, and greater accountability for negligent drivers who endanger cyclists and pedestrians.

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Bike Commuter Challenge Registration and Important Dates

• Challenge Dates: Monday, May 11 – Sunday, June 7, 2026
• Team Captain Registration: Now Open
• Participant Registration Opens: Monday, May 4, 2026
• Last Day to Log Miles: Sunday, June 14, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.

Participants and team captains can register here:

Register for the Bike Commuter Challenge Here

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Divvy Promotion for New Riders

The Bike Commuter Challenge also encourages new riders to explore Chicago’s bike share system. New Divvy riders can receive $5 off their first three rides using promo code:

PEDALCHI26

*New Divvy riders only*

Using Divvy is a great way for first-time commuters to begin incorporating bicycling into their daily transportation routine without needing to own a bicycle.

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Why Keating Law Offices Supports Bicycle Advocacy in Chicago

At Keating Law Offices, bicycle advocacy is central to the firm’s mission. Through IllinoisBicycleLaw.com, the firm has spent years advocating for safer streets while representing bicyclists injured in bicycle accidents throughout Chicago and Illinois.

Chicago continues to experience increased bicycle traffic as more residents turn to cycling for commuting, recreation, and transportation. Unfortunately, with more cyclists on the road comes an increased risk of serious bicycle accidents caused by negligent drivers, distracted driving, unsafe roadway design, speeding, and failure to yield.

As a leading Chicago bicycle accident law firm, Keating Law Offices understands that promoting bicycle safety requires more than litigation. Supporting events like the Bike Commuter Challenge helps:

• Increase driver awareness of bicyclists on Chicago streets
• Promote safer roadway infrastructure
• Encourage sustainable transportation
• Build stronger cycling communities
• Advocate for vulnerable roadway users across Illinois

The firm’s sponsorship of the Challenge reflects its long-standing commitment to making Chicago safer for everyone who walks, bikes, or uses public transportation.

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Building Safer Streets for Chicago Cyclists

The Active Transportation Alliance has spent decades advocating for safer and more equitable transportation policies throughout the Chicago region. The organization has helped advance major improvements for bicyclists, pedestrians, and transit riders across Illinois.

At Keating Law Offices, we share that same vision.

Every bicyclist commuting to work helps demonstrate the need for:

• Protected bike lanes
• Traffic calming measures
• Safer intersections
• Improved driver accountability
• Greater legal protections for cyclists and pedestrians

By participating in the Bike Commuter Challenge, riders are helping create a safer and more bike-friendly Chicago.

The growth of bicycle commuting throughout Chicago also highlights the importance of enforcing Illinois traffic laws designed to protect vulnerable roadway users. Drivers throughout Illinois must safely share the roadway with bicyclists, leave adequate passing distance, and remain alert for cyclists at intersections, crosswalks, and bike lanes.

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Why You Should Participate in the Bike Commuter Challenge

Whether you ride every day or are trying bike commuting for the first time, the Bike Commuter Challenge offers numerous benefits:

• Improve physical and mental health
• Save money on transportation costs
• Reduce traffic congestion and pollution
• Connect with other Chicago cyclists
• Support safer streets and active transportation advocacy
• Have fun while competing with coworkers and friends

Even one ride during the Challenge helps support the growing movement for safer bicycling infrastructure in Chicago.

For many participants, the Challenge becomes the first step toward making bicycling part of everyday life. Increased ridership also helps normalize cycling as an essential and legitimate form of transportation throughout Illinois.

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Ride with Keating Law Offices This May

As Chicago bicycle accident attorneys and advocates for injured cyclists, Keating Law Offices is proud to support the Bike Commuter Challenge and the work of the Active Transportation Alliance.

We encourage everyone throughout Chicagoland to participate, log their rides, and help continue building a safer future for vulnerable roadway users.

Learn More About the Bike Commuter Challenge

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About Keating Law Offices

Keating Law Offices is a premier personal injury law firm based in Chicago, Illinois representing victims of bicycle accidents, pedestrian crashes, and other serious personal injury matters throughout Illinois. Through IllinoisBicycleLaw.com, the firm advocates for safer streets, stronger protections for bicyclists and pedestrians, and accountability for negligent drivers.

Illinois Senate Bill Signals a Major Shift in E-Bike Law and Liability in Illinois

Illinois lawmakers are moving quickly on legislation that could fundamentally change how electric bikes, scooters, and other motorized devices are regulated throughout Illinois. Senate Bill 3336 recently advanced out of the Illinois House Transportation: Vehicles and Safety Committee with unanimous support after previously passing the Illinois Senate unanimously. This sets the stage for the bill to pass the Senate and if signed into law by Governor Pritzker would become the standing law in Illinois. 

The proposal comes amid growing concern over increasingly powerful electric micromobility devices and a sharp rise in serious injury crashes involving riders, pedestrians, and motorists.

For cyclists, pedestrians, injury victims, and families across Illinois, this bill deserves close attention.

Illinois Finally Confronts the Reality of Modern E-Bikes

For years, Illinois law has treated many electric bikes similarly to traditional bicycles, despite dramatic technological changes in the marketplace. Today’s higher-powered electric bikes and e-motos are often heavier, substantially faster, and capable of causing catastrophic injuries in collisions.

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias has made Senate Bill 3336 a legislative priority because current Illinois law has not kept pace with the realities of modern electric mobility devices.

The proposed legislation would create a legal framework for “electric micromobility devices” and impose additional requirements on certain higher-powered vehicles, including:

• Registration requirements

• Mandatory liability insurance

• Driver’s license requirements

• Speed restrictions

• Additional operational regulations

As Secretary Giannoulias explained:

“It recognizes that higher speed, higher powered e-bikes and e-motos are no longer bicycles. They function more like motorcycles, and this bill treats them accordingly.”

You can review the full text and status of Illinois Senate Bill 3336 here:

Illinois Senate Bill 3336 Legislative Status

That distinction is critical—not just from a regulatory standpoint, but from the perspective of public safety and civil liability.

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Serious Injuries Are Increasing Across Illinois and Nationwide

The push for regulation follows a dramatic increase in severe injuries involving electric mobility devices.

As personal injury attorneys, we have seen first hand the severity and extent of injuries incurred by riders on e-scooters and e-bikes. Researchers at Columbia University found e-bike injuries surged nearly 300% nationwide between 2019 and 2022. Emergency departments throughout Illinois are seeing the consequences firsthand.

Dr. Kristine Cieslak of Lurie Children’s Hospital Chicago described devastating injuries involving children and young riders, including:

• Traumatic brain injuries

• Facial fractures

• Complex fractures to elbows and forearms

• Dental trauma

• Long-term hospitalization and rehabilitation

These are not ordinary bicycle crashes.

Many modern electric devices accelerate rapidly, travel at unsafe speeds in mixed-use areas, and weigh significantly more than traditional bicycles. That combination creates substantial risks for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike.

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Why Insurance Requirements Matter

One of the most significant aspects of Senate Bill 3336 is the proposed insurance requirement for certain higher-powered electric vehicles.

Representative Regan Deering referenced a constituent whose husband was killed after being struck by a motorized bike. Tragically, many victims involved in crashes with unregulated electric vehicles discover there is little or no insurance coverage available to compensate them for medical expenses, lost income, or wrongful death damages. The number of victims of crashes with e-bikes are not totally known, but the increase in the number of e-bikes and e-scooters on the roads has led to many crashes throughout Illinois. 

When there is no insurance coverage, injured victims and grieving families are often left without meaningful financial recovery. Mandatory insurance requirements could help close that dangerous gap.

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The Challenge: Protecting Cyclists Without Overregulating Bicycles

As bicycle advocates, we recognize the importance of balancing safety with preserving the rights of legitimate cyclists.

Not all electric bicycles are the same.

A low-speed pedal-assist commuter bicycle is fundamentally different from a high-powered electric motorcycle capable of traveling at dangerous speeds through bike lanes, sidewalks, and shared-use paths.

Illinois lawmakers must be careful not to blur those distinctions.

Cyclists throughout Illinois have fought for decades to secure safer infrastructure, equal roadway rights, and legal protections. Those gains should not be undermined by treating traditional bicycles and lawful low-speed e-bikes the same as unregulated high-performance motorized vehicles.

Clear definitions matter.

Reasonable safety regulations matter.

And accountability matters.

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The Legal Questions Are Only Beginning

Regardless of whether Senate Bill 3336 ultimately becomes law, courts and insurance companies will continue confronting difficult legal questions involving electric mobility devices, including:

• Whether a device legally qualifies as a bicycle or motor vehicle

• Insurance coverage disputes

• Speed and power classifications

• Trail and roadway access

• Comparative negligence issues

• Helmet use

• Product defects and aftermarket modifications

As these cases increase, so will the need for attorneys and lawmakers who understand both bicycle law and transportation policy.

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Michael Keating’s Perspective on Illinois Transportation Law

At Keating Law Offices, we have long advocated for safer streets, stronger protections for vulnerable road users, and balanced transportation policy that protects cyclists while addressing legitimate public safety concerns.

Michael Keating brings a unique background to these issues. Before representing injured cyclists and pedestrians throughout Illinois, Michael served as counsel to the Illinois Speaker of the House, where he worked extensively on legislative and transportation matters affecting Illinois residents.

Mike Keating is considered a leading legal authority in the country regarding bicycle and micro-mobility law. Mike has also served as:

• Chair of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association Legislative Committee

• Chair of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association Transportation Committee

• Chair of the Bicycle Law Committee for the American Association for Justice

That experience provides insight into how transportation legislation is drafted, debated, and ultimately enforced throughout Illinois.

As electric mobility technology evolves, Illinois law must evolve with it—but lawmakers must ensure those changes are thoughtful, evidence-based, and narrowly tailored to address the actual risks posed by higher-powered vehicles.

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The Bottom Line

Electric bicycles and micromobility devices are now a permanent part of Illinois transportation. Many riders use them responsibly and safely every day.

But higher-powered electric vehicles operating without meaningful regulation create serious risks for pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and riders themselves.

Senate Bill 3336 represents Illinois’ effort to bring clarity, accountability, and safety standards to a rapidly changing area of transportation law.

The key will be ensuring that lawmakers distinguish between legitimate bicycles and vehicles that function more like motorcycles—while continuing to protect the rights and safety of Illinois cyclists.

Keating Law Offices Presents The Bike To Work Challenge

Keating Law Offices is proud to have been the presenting sponsor for Chicago's Bike To Work Challenge. The challenge took place between June 15th and June 29th and including teams that included hundreds of cyclists from companies throughout Chicago. Whether the companies were large or small, each rider played a part in racking up points based on the number of times they rode their bike to work and the number of miles bicycling.

Chicago Bicycle Attorney Mike Keating

Keating Law Offices attorney Mike Keating said, 

"We are very honored to support the Bike To Work Challenge. I'm a regular bicycle commuter and many of our clients commute by bike. By supporting the Bike To Work Challenge we help reinforce the important role bicycling plays in Chicago's transportation scheme. Commuting by bike is healthier for the bicyclist, reduces congestion on city streets, and makes the city more accessible. All of this helps us fight for the rights of cyclists in Chicago."

Keating Law Offices - West Town Location

825 North Milwaukee Avenue

The firm also hosted a "Pit Stop" at its West Town location on the Milwaukee Avenue Bike Lane. The Milwaukee Avenue location is the firm's second location. Keating Law Offices also has Loop offices at 111 West Washington Avenue on the Washington protected bike lane and across the street from City Hall and the courthouse at the Daley Center.

The West Town location provides a local presence on Chicago's most heavily trafficked bicycle lane to better serve the firm's clients and the Chicago bicycle community. The goal of the West Town location is also to reinforce the firm's absolute commitment to Chicago's bicycle community. The West Town location is located at 825 North Milwaukee Avenue near the intersection of Milwaukee and Chicago and is steps from the Elston bike lane.

Fighting for Chicago Cyclists

Keating Law Offices is the premiere personal injury law firm representing victims of bicycle accidents in Illinois. The firm is based in Chicago, Illinois and represents clients throughout Illinois. Keating Law Offices has represented hundreds of clients who were injured in bicycle accidents as well as their families. In the process the firm has also fought for the rights of bicyclists in Chicago and throughout Illinois.

Contact Keating Law Offices 24/7

The firm is always immediately accessible to its clients and anyone interested in discussing a legal matter. There are live operators available for live chat or text, and phone operators available 24/7. You can reach the firm directly at 312-239-6787 or via email at Info@KeatingLegal.com.

Lawsuit On Behalf of Injured Chicago Bicycle Messenger Settled for $100,000.00

The Illinois Bicycle Lawyers at Keating Law Offices have settled a personal injury lawsuit filed on behalf of a Chicago bicyclist for $100,000.00. This amount represents the full amount of the State Farm Insurance policy for the motorist who struck the bicyclist and caused her injuries in November of 2014. State Farm had originally denied any responsibility in this case and the bicyclist was forced to file a lawsuit against the driver in the Circuit Court of Cook County. After only six months of litigation the attorney for the driver agreed to have State Farm Insurance settle the case for every penny available from the insurance company.

The motorist caused the collision when she attempted to accelerate past the bike messenger as both traveled southbound on Lakewood Avenue in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood. The record in the case indicated that the motorist struck the bicyclist’s rear tire at approximately 25 to 30 miles per hour and ejected her forward. The bike messenger was violently thrown off her bicycle and onto the pavement of Lakewood Avenue due to the force of the impact. Due to the severity and speed of the crash, the bike messenger suffered fractures of her radius and ulna bones in her right arm at the wrist, as well as shredded her tendons. She also smacked her forehead on the pavement as she crash-landed.

The Chicago Police Department ticketed the motorist for her failure to exercise due care because she collided with the bicyclist in the roadway. It was a clear violation of Section 9-40-160 of the Chicago Municipal Code, which affords bicyclists the same rights as motorists on the road.

Chicago Bicycle Laws Provide Bicyclists Protection On City Streets

Motorists must be aware of bicyclists on the road at all times and a failure to “not see the bicyclist” until it is too late is no excuse. Section 9-40-160 of the Chicago Municipal Code provides the following protection to bicyclists on the roadway:

"Every driver of a vehicle shall exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian, or any person operating a bicycle or other device propelled by human or animal power, upon any roadway, and shall give warning by sounding the horn when necessary…"

Chicago Bicycle Lawyers Successfully Resolve Case After Filing Lawsuit

Despite the Chicago Police Department finding the motorist at-fault and the ruling of a Cook County Traffic Court judge determining the motorist was guilty for a failure to exercise due care in this collision, the insurance company for the motorist refused to offer any money in settlement when negotiations first began. The claim by the motorist was that the bicyclist pulled in front of the motorist and the crash was not only unavoidable, but actually the bicyclist's fault. The insurance company for the motorist believed the bicyclist was at-fault because they claimed that and offered nothing prior to the Illinois Bicycle Lawyers at Keating Law Offices filing a lawsuit against the motorist in the Circuit Court of Cook County.

After filing suit on behalf of this injured bike messenger and six months of contested litigation, the Illinois Bicycle Lawyers at Keating Law Offices were successful in obtaining the insurance policy limits for the injured bike messenger – $100,000.00 – in settlement.

Bicycle Crash Lawyers

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, it is important that your get as much information as possible right away regarding your legal options. Keating Law Offices is the premier personal injury law firm representing victims of bicycle accidents in Illinois. The firm is based in Chicago, Illinois and represents clients throughout Illinois.

If you have any questions regarding this post or have a question regarding personal injury law, please contact Illinois Bicycle Attorney Mike Keating at 312-239-6787 (Office) or 312-208-7702 (Nights/Weekends). Our staff and operators are available around the clock. You can also email Mike@KeatingLegal.com 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All e-mails and phone calls are returned promptly. All initial consultations are confidential and free.

Illinois Bicycle Lawyer Mike Keating Named a "SuperLawyer" for the 5th Straight Year

Keating Law Offices attorney Michael S. Keating has been named a "Rising Star" by SuperLawyers Magazine. Only 2.5% of Illinois attorneys receive the “Rising Stars” honor and are recognized by Super Lawyers magazine each year. Attorney Keating has now been named a "Rising Star" in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015.

In order to become part of this prestigious list, all attorneys go through the Rising Stars selection process. SuperLawyers magazine invites Illinois lawyers once a year to nominate the top attorneys they have personally observed in action while an attorney-led research team searches for lawyers who have a high degree of professional competence.

SuperLawyers research team then evaluates each candidate based on the following 12 indicators: verdicts and settlements; transactions; representative clients; experience; honors and awards; special licenses and certifications; position within the law firm; bar and or other professional activity; pro bono and community service as a lawyer; scholarly lectures and writings; education and employment background; and other outstanding achievements.

Based on these 12 indicators and final selection by SuperLawyers team, Attorney Michael Keating was selected. He believes that he has a responsibility to his community, which is why he is a member of the Illinois State Bar Association, the Chicago Bar Association, the Chicago Area Runners Association, and the Active Transportation Alliance.

Attorney Keating leads the Keating Law Offices team with the upmost dedication, rigor and passion to pursue justice for individuals and families whose lives have been affected by the negligence of others. Keating Law Offices concentrates its practice on personal injury, medical malpractice, bicycle and other transportation negligence, premises liability, products liability, and nursing home negligence and abuse cases. The firm has successfully represented clients throughout Illinois since 2008.

Mike Keating also serves as the Chair of the Bicycle Litigation Group for the American Association for Justice, the national trial lawyers organization. He is one of the youngest committee chairs in the entire United States.

Keating Law Offices Files Lawsuit on Behalf of Chicago Bicyclist Sideswiped by CTA Bus

Western Avenue at Walton - Scene of bicycle accident involving a Chicago bicyclist and CTA bus.

The Illinois Bicycle Lawyers at Keating Law Offices have filed a lawsuit on behalf of an injured Chicago bicyclist against the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and one of its bus drivers. The lawsuit stems from a bicycle crash that occurred on the afternoon of July 18, 2014 near Chicago's Ukrainian Village neighborhood.

Prior to the crash, the bicyclist was riding southbound on North Western Avenue near its intersection with West Walton Street. At the same time, the driver of a CTA bus began passing the bicyclist on the left side of her bicycle. According to the report filed by the responding Chicago police officer, the bicycle rack on the front of the bus first clipped her handlebar and then the aluminum frame of the advertisement on the side of the CTA bus again "clipped" the handlebar a second time. According to the police report, the bicyclist was dragged along the bus before being able to push away from the bus. While she was able to keep from falling underneath the bus, she still crashed onto Western Avenue.

The CTA bus driver continued to drive southbound on North Western Avenue until a passenger alerted the bus driver about the alleged incident. According to reports, there are multiple witnesses to this collision. As a result of this injury, the bicyclist suffered a severe injury to her ulnar nerve near her elbow. This injury required a surgical repair that left the bicyclist with a permanent scar. The bicyclist also continues to suffer from decreased strength and dexterity in her hand and arm from the injury. In addition, the injured bicyclist suffered abrasions that left scars throughout her body.

The lawsuit alleges that the CTA, by and through its employee, was negligent for failing to meet certain laws and requirements related to the handling of a bus around a bicycle. The Illinois Vehicle Code states that a driver of a vehicle overtaking a bicycle traveling in the same direction shall pass to the left of that bicycle at a safe distance in order to safely clear said bicycle.  625 ILCS 5/11-703(a).

In addition, Section 9-36-010 of the Municipal Code of Chicago requires something known as the “3-Foot Rule.” That is, the operator of a motor vehicle (in this case a bus) that is overtaking a bicycle traveling in the same direction on a highway must leave a safe distance, but not less than 3 feet, when passing the bicycle. The motor vehicle must then maintain that distance until safely past the overtaken bicycle.

According to the lawsuit filed on January 29, 2015 in the Law Division of the Circuit Court of Cook County, the CTA bus driver allegedly failed to leave the safe distance of at least 3 feet between the bus and the victim bicyclist. The lawsuit also alleges that the driver of the CTA bus allegedly failed to safely clear the victim and her bicycle and these failures caused the bicyclist to lose her balance and fall into the side of the bus.

All Illinois drivers have a duty to keep a proper lookout for bicyclists or other vehicles upon said streets. If a driver were to fail to keep a proper lookout for a bicyclist and then struck said bicyclist, that driver would be liable for the injuries the bicyclist suffered. All Illinois drivers also have a duty to make sure that their vehicles move into a lane of traffic safely and that they exercise due care to avoid colliding with any person operating a bicycle. Bicyclists have a right to obtain compensation for injuries caused by a driver who does not exercise due care while operating his or her vehicle. 

Bike Lanes Promote Safety For Bicyclists....AND Pedestrians. So is Chicago doing enough with its bike plans?

The Illinois Bicycle Law Shield.

People for Bikes recently posted an excellent blog post from Michael Andersen, a Green Lane Project staff writer, about how bike lanes are just promoting safe bicycling, but also influencing safe conditions for pedestrians. Bike lanes are a part of a city's overall traffic planning that takes into account motor vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians.

In Chicago, with its densely populated neighborhoods and street layouts that date back to the rebuilding of the city after the Great Chicago Fire in 1871, traffic planning is a critically important issue for all citizens regardless of how they get around.

Nonetheless, traffic planning is especially important for bicyclists and pedestrians because unlike motorists or riders on public transportation, bicyclists and pedestrians are especially vulnerable if they are involved in a bicycle accident. In 2014 alone, 8 bicyclists have died from a bicycle vs. motorist crash in Chicago. This is double the number of deaths in 2013. Also, so far in 2014, 23 pedestrians were killed when struck by a motorist.

These numbers should concern every citizen of Chicago and raises the question: What is being done to reduce these numbers of deaths?

Although Chicagoans need to be aware and alert of their surroundings and of the traffic safety laws, the City of Chicago's Department of Transportation has begun implementing various protected bicycle lanes to create a distinct barrier between pedestrians/bicyclists and motorists. These lanes are located next to the sidewalk curb and have physical barriers, such as parked cars and markers /poles to separate bicyclists from motorists.

In 2011, Chicago installed its first barrier protected bike lane on Kinzie Street that was 1/2 mile long. This protected lane extends from Milwaukee Avenue to Wells Street and has increased bicycle riding by 55%. In 2012, Chicago installed a protected bike lane on Dearborn, which really focused on protecting those individuals who commute into the Loop via bicycle for work or leisure because it provides a direct route in and out of Chicago’s Loop. This Dearborn barrier protected bike lane extends from Polk Street to Kinzie Street. Then in 2013, Chicago installed the Milwaukee barrier protected bike lane, which is used by more than a thousand cyclists each day. This protected bike lane extends from Desplaines Street to Elston Avenue, and it too provides a direct route in and out of Chicago’s Loop. In total, the City of Chicago has 12 miles of barrier protected bike lanes.

So the next question you may be asking yourself: Is that enough? With more than 4,000 miles of streets in the City of Chicago, the answer is no.

Not only do these barrier protected bike lanes make bicyclists feel safer and provide a blockade from passing vehicles, these lanes also protect pedestrians from motorists. The protected bike lanes decrease the amount of roadway a pedestrian has to walk across, which means the pedestrian is walking across fewer lanes of vehicular traffic and has a higher likelihood of getting to the other side of the street safely. Also, protected bike lanes act as a signal to pedestrians as to which way traffic is traveling, that way pedestrians know when a vehicle is approaching and when it is safe to walk across a street. These barrier protected bike lanes also act as an additional walk signal for pedestrians—when bicyclists are given the green light to proceed in their protected bike lane, that gives pedestrians the “green light” to walk across Chicago streets safely. Barrier protected bike lanes also create an additional obstacle for those motorists who are always in a hurry. The protected lanes minimize the amount of swerving motorists are inclined to do to get around a stopped vehicle.

Barrier protected bike lanes, if increased throughout the City of Chicago, could begin reducing the amount of bicyclist vs. motorist and pedestrian vs. motorist collisions and decreasing the number of bicyclist and pedestrian fatalities. The City of Chicago has made great strides in building its bicycle infrastructure, and has great plans, but it is of critical importance for the safety of bicyclists - and pedestrians - that these plans are continued. Lives depend on it.

Why Do So Many Bicyclists Fracture Their Collarbone In A Bike Crash?

As a personal injury attorney, one of the first topics we discuss with a client is "What are your injuries?" As attorneys who concentrate our practice on representing victims of bicycle accidents, time and time again we see broken collarbones as the main injury from a bike crash. The reality is that one of the most common injuries for bicyclists hurt in an accident or crash is a fractured collarbone. Even now scrutinized, but once heralded, pro riders like Lance Armstrong and Tyler Hamilton famously suffered broken collarbones.

Attorney Mike Keating was recently consulted by an out-of-state attorney who was handling a bicycle accident case. The attorney was in a difficult predicament because his client was knocked unconscious in a crash and wasn't sure as to what happened. The bicyclist had broken ribs on his right side, but a fractured collarbone on his left. The attorney was trying to figure out how there could be two injuries to two sides from the same crash. Attorney Keating knew what the most probably scenario was: the bicyclist was hit by the car on his right side, and then knocked onto the pavement onto his left side where his clavicle broke.

 

The collarbone, or clavicle, is probably the most susceptible bone on the body of a cyclist but not for the reason most people think. Many cyclists break their collarbone not by the bone itself hitting the pavement, but from the fall off their bike. When a cyclist is thrown from a bicycle, their immediate and instinctive reaction is to put their hands out to break their fall. However, when their hands hit the pavement the jarring force causes the collarbone to buckle under pressure. This event is known as the "mechanism of injury."

 

An Australian doctor who deals primarily with cyclist injuries, Dr. Dominic Briscomb, says that 95% of collarbone injuries can be diagnosed by touch. Most cyclists can feel a noticeable bump in the area and the arm on the side of injury can go numb. Should you feel a bump or sharp pain, you should IMMEDIATELY go to the hospital. Most minor collarbone breaks can be treated by simply placing your arm in a sling for 3-6 weeks, however more serious collarbone breaks can require surgery. The most common surgery is an open reduction - internal fixation surgery (ORIF) where a surgical plate and screws are used to secure the fracture. Finally, after the break has healed, physical therapy is required.

It is important to attempt to regain full range of motion after a collarbone injury and physical therapy is a valuable tool to not only get back on the road, but to get 100% physically. Most avid cyclists will want to get back on the road as soon as possible following a collarbone break, but these cyclists should proceed with caution and wait until they have clearance from their treating physician. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, as the old expression goes.

Keating Law Offices currently represents numerous cyclists who have suffered broken collarbones after a bicycle accident or crash. If you have any questions regarding this post or an issue involving Illinois personal injury law, please contact Illinois Bicycle Attorney Mike Keating at 312-208-7702 or MKeating@KeatingLegal.com 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All e-mails and phone calls are returned promptly. All initial consultations are confidential and free.

Chicago Bicyclist Injured in Hit-and-Run Crash on Goose Island

The Illinois Bicycle Lawyers at Keating Law Offices have been retained to represent a Chicago bicyclist who was injured in a hit-and-run on the near west side of Chicago.  The bicyclist was travelling eastbound down Division Street when an unknown black sedan struck him from behind, causing him to crash onto the pavement. The operator of the motor vehicle never stopped and instead, proceeded to drive on. The police report from the Chicago Police Department accurately identifies the accident as a hit and run. According to the City of Chicago’s Bicycle Crash Analysis, 25% of all bicycle crashes in 2012 were classified as hit-and-runs.

The bicyclist sustained severe injuries in the collision and was immediately transported to the emergency room in an ambulance as he was experiencing significant pain in his right elbow, knee and had sustained a very deep laceration. At the hospital, the bicyclist was diagnosed with an elbow fracture and had to undergo surgery. He is now receiving extensive follow-up care.

Once again, this collision also signifies the important of having Uninsured Motorist Insurance Coverage like this rider did. Many injured bicyclists do not realize that if they are hurt as the result the negligent actions of another driver -- and that driver is uninsured, underinsured, or never identified (as is often the case in a hit-and-run collision) -- they may be able to obtain financial compensation for their injuries from their own insurance provider. Even though all drivers in Illinois must legally have car insurance, there are many people who are willing to break that law and forgo this requirement. Time and again, uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage has proven to be a vital protection for injured bicyclists -- the true victims who lose when drivers risk being on the road with no or insufficient insurance.

If you have any questions regarding this post or an issue involving Illinois personal injury law, please do not hesitate to contact Illinois Bicycle Lawyer Mike Keating at 312-239-6787 (Business Hours) or  312-208-7702 (24/7) or at MKeating@KeatingLegal.com. All emails and phone calls are returned promptly. Keating Law Offices offers free, no obligation consultations to injured bicyclists. There are never any attorneys' fees or expenses unless the firm is able to make a recovery on your behalf.

Chicago Bicyclist Doored in West Town

The Illinois Bicycle Lawyers have been retained to represent a bicyclist who was the victim of a dooring in the West Town neighborhood in Chicago. The dooring occurred as the bicyclist was riding northbound on Wood Street at the same time as a driver of a vehicle suddenly opened his car door directly into the path of the bicyclist. Unable to evade the door, the bicyclist collided with it, and the collision caused her to be thrown from her bicycle onto the street. The motorist then went inside the television production office where he worked. Police who came to the scene were able to track the motorist to the vehicle on the street.

The bicyclist was taken to Rush University Medical Center due to pain in her right shoulder and elbow.

At the hospital, the bicyclist was physically examined and underwent x-rays. Since the collision she has also received orthopedic treatment as she continues to recover from her injuries.

According to the City of Chicago’s 2012 Bicycle Crash Analysis, Chicago has implemented several efforts to reduce the number of doorings in Chicago, including public awareness marketing campaigns and expanded driver education. Doorings are perhaps the type of bicycle vs. motor vehicle collision that are the most easily reduced. As the name of the City's campaign states, a driver exiting a vehicle need only LOOK! in order to avoid a dooring collision. Effective education that leads to new habits could be the key to reducing doorings.

If you have any questions regarding this post or an issue involving Illinois personal injury law, please do not hesitate to contact Illinois Bicycle Lawyer Mike Keating at 312-239-6787 (Business Hours) or  312-208-7702 (24/7) or at MKeating@KeatingLegal.com. The firm is committed to assisting any bicyclist injured anywhere in Illinois at any time. All emails and phone calls are returned promptly. Keating Law Offices offers free, no obligation consultations to injured bicyclists. There are never any attorneys' fees or expenses unless the firm is able to make a recovery on your behalf. Please call anytime if you have a personal injury case from a bicycle crash you would like to discuss.

Chicago Bicyclist Riding In Bike Lane Injured in Left Hook Crash

The Illinois Bicycle Lawyers of Keating Law Offices have been retained to represent a Chicago bicyclist struck by a motorist on Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago.  The bicyclist was riding lawfully in the bike lane along Milwaukee when the driver of an oncoming SUV started to make a left turn in front of the bicyclist. Although the bicyclist attempted to alert the motorist by yelling and ringing her bike's bell, the driver of the SUV collided with the bicyclist in Milwaukee Avenue. This is known as a "left hook" collision due to the vehicle's path into the bicyclist. The driver initially attempted to drive away from the scene but was chased down by another bicyclist.  When the police arrived on the scene, the driver claimed he did not see the bicyclist and that he did not even realize he had struck her.

The bicyclist sustained an injury to her ankle and was evaluated at a nearby hospital. Since the collision, she has undergone x-rays, physical therapy and has had to utilize crutches to walk.

According to the Chicago Department of Transportation, approximately 55% of all Chicago bicycle crashes occur at intersections. Moreover, 40% of all Chicago bicycle crashes occur as a result of a motorists' failure to yield. Sadly, our newest case is evidence of the same, as the motorist in this collision failed to pay proper attention to the bike lane as he made a left hand turn.  Drivers must be diligent in keeping a proper lookout for bicyclists when they are operating a motor vehicle.  

If you have any questions regarding this post or an issue involving Illinois personal injury law, please do not hesitate to contact Illinois Bicycle Lawyer Mike Keating at 312-239-6787 (Business Hours) or  312-208-7702 (24/7) or at MKeating@KeatingLegal.com. All emails and phone calls are returned promptly. Keating Law Offices offers free, no obligation consultations to injured bicyclists. There are never any attorneys' fees or expenses unless the firm is able to make a recovery on your behalf.

New Law To Help Victims of Bicycle Crashes Receive Compensation Faster

If you are a victim of a bike crash, the crash was the fault of someone else, and the case is settled with the insurance company why don't you get your settlement check immediately? There are many factors that can play into this, but one big factor is often insurance companies simply wait as long as possible to pay. This raises the question, why would insurance companies employ such a tactic to delay payment on settlements they have already agreed to? The answer is simply that the longer the insurance company keeps the money in their accounts, the more money they can make. By delaying payment the insurance company collects interest and investment gains as the settlement money sits in their accounts rather than the injury victim’s bank account. Thus, insurance companies have every motivation to keep settlement funds in their accounts as long as possible.

This scenario changes January 1, 2014 due to a new law signed by Governor Quinn that will ensure timely payments of settlements for personal injury cases. Public Act 098-0548 prohibits insurance companies from delaying settlement payments to bicycle crash victims as well as other personal injury victims. If insurance companies fail to make settlement payments pursuant to the deadlines set in the new law, the injury victim can seek a judgment for compensation in addition to the agreed settlement amount, including costs incurred in obtaining settlement funds and interest on the settlement amount. In other words, if the insurance companies delay after settling a claim for a bike accident, they will end up paying even more.

This bill was passed with the assistance of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association, where Illinois Bicycle Lawyer Mike Keating is a member of the Legislative Committee that worked on pushing this issue.

Illinois is long overdue for "prompt pay" laws to combat the motivation of insurance companies to delay settlement payments. This new law will finally give insurance companies a motivation to make settlement payments sooner rather than later. The proposed penalties for untimely settlement payments will help ensure that victims of bicycle crashes will be not only be fully compensated, but also timely compensated.

The Illinois Bicycle Lawyers at Keating Law Offices take pride in ensuring that victims of bicycle crashes are fully and timely compensated. If you have any questions regarding this post or an issue involving a bicycle accident, please contact Illinois Bicycle Attorney Mike Keating at 312-208-7702 or MKeating@KeatingLegal.com 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All e-mails and phone calls are returned promptly. All initial consultations are completely confidential and free. If necessary we can meet with you in our office, in your home, or anywhere else that is convenient to you.

Census Data Shows That Bicycle Commuting In Chicago Is Skyrocketing in Popularity

According to data collected by the U.S Census Bureau in its 2012 American Community Survey, the number of Chicago residents commuting to work by bicycle increased by 13.7% between 2011 and 2012. In 2012, 19,147 Chicago residents, comprising 1.6% of all commuters, relied upon bicycles as their primary mode of transportation to and from work. In 2011, only 1.4% of Chicago residents commuted to work via bicycle. This data was reported in an excellent story by Ted Cox of DNAInfo.com.

The Census warned that its survey results may underestimate the number of Chicago bicyclists commuting to work due to the small sample size of the survey. In addition, bicyclists complained that the survey only allowed participants to check one mode of transportation for their commute, so individuals who bike to and from public transportation were recorded as mass transit commuters though they rely upon bicycling as a vital part of their commute.

City Transportation Commissioner Gabe Klein credits the Divvy bike-sharing program with increasing the number of bicycle commuters in the city. Commissioner Klein stated, "The bike-sharing program is really mainstreaming biking in Chicago. It changes the way cars, bikes, and pedestrians interact." While bicycle commuting is increasing, current numbers are nowhere near Commissioner Klein's goal of 5%. The continued completion of a 500 mile bikeway network under Mayor Rahm Emanuel's Bike 2015 Plan should result in additional increases in bicycle commuters, as the plan aims to install at least one bikeway within a half mile of every Chicago resident.

As we noted in our May 16, 2013 post, Chicago is currently the top ranking "bikeable" large Midwestern city and is the 10th most bikeable large city nationally. As Chicago becomes more bike-friendly, City officials have taken a number of steps to increase bicycling safety, including adding more protected bike lanes, installing stickers in rear cab windows warning against opening doors into bicycle traffic, and increasing the fines for dooring bicyclists. The Illinois Bicycle Attorneys at Keating Law Offices hope to see further increases in bicycle commuting as the City continues to make bicycling in Chicago more accessible, easier, and safer. As the numbers of bicyclists increa, it is important that not just bicyclists but motorist be educated about bicyclists' rights and the importance of all vehicles "sharing the road."

Keating Law Offices is the premiere law firm handling bicycle-related cases in Illinois. The firm is committed to the representation of bicyclists who have been injured as a result of the negligence of others. If you have any questions regarding this post or an issue involving Illinois personal injury law, please contact Illinois Bicycle Attorney Mike Keating at 312-208-7702 or MKeating@KeatingLegal.com 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All e-mails and phone calls are returned promptly. All initial consultations are confidential and free.

DePaul Student Suffers Head Injury and Broken Foot in Left Hook Bike Accident

The Illinois Bicycle Lawyers at Keating Law Offices have been retained to represent a local 26 year-old bicyclist who sustained a brain injury and a broken foot when he was struck by a 78 year-old motorist on May 14, 2013. The collision occurred at the 6-way intersection of Belmont Avenue, Ashland Avenue, and Lincoln Avenue. As the bicyclist entered the intersection he was suddenly t-boned by a vehicle attempting to make a left onto westbound Belmont Avenue from northbound Lincoln Avenue. Upon impact, the bicyclist was knocked unconscious and was thrown onto the hood of the car before landing on the pavement. The injured bicyclist has been experiencing cognitive deficiencies since the bicycle crash and was diagnosed with a broken bone in his foot.

This type of bicycle accident or crash is often referred to as a “left hook” bicycle collision. The motorist’s “left hook” which resulted in the bicycle crash was in direct violation of Section 9-16-020 of the Municipal Code of Chicago. Section 9-16-020(e) provides:

9-16-020 (e) Right of way to a bicycle on Left Turn - The driver of a vehicle within an intersection intending to turn to the left shall yield the right-of-way to a bicycle approaching from the opposite direction which is within the intersection or so close thereto as to constitute an immediate hazard.

Here, the motorist was required to yield the right-of-way to the bicycle approaching from the opposition direction. As evidenced by the collision and resulting injuries, the motorist clearly violated Section 9-16-020 of the Municipal Code of Chicago.

The motorist also violated Section 9-40-160 of the Municipal Code of Chicago in causing the bicycle crash. In fact, the responding police officer issued the motorist a traffic citation for violating Section 9-40-160. Section 9-40-160 provides:

9-40-160 Drivers to exercise due care - Every driver of a vehicle shall exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian, or any person operating a bicycle or other device propelled by human or animal power, upon any roadway, and shall give warning by sounding the horn when necessary and shall exercise proper precautions upon observing any child or any confused or incapacitated person upon a roadway.

Sections 9-16-020 and 9-40-160 are just two of the numerous laws established by the Municipal Code of Chicago to protect bicyclists. Click here for additional provisions of the Municipal Code of Chicago that encourage bicylist safety. The Illinois Bicycle Lawyers often rely on the Municipal Code of Chicago as well as the Illinois Vehicle Code to obtain favorable settlements and verdicts for injured bicyclists.

The bicycle attorneys at Keating Law Offices have successfully handled numerous "left hook" bicycle crashes.  If you have any questions regarding this post or an issue involving Illinois personal injury law, please contact Illinois Bicycle Attorney Mike Keating at (312) 208-7702 or MKeating@KeatingLegal.com 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All e-mails and phone calls are returned promptly. All initial consultations are confidential and FREE.

What Are the New Proposed Bike Laws in Chicago?

There has been a great deal of media attention to the new proposed laws in Chicago as they relate to bicycles. The proposed changes as they affect bicyclist are something of a "double edged sword." The changes absolute clarify the legal language so that it is clear that bicycles are protected. Beyond the language, penalties for violating the Code in a way that interferes with a bicyclist or causes a bicycle accident or collision are sharply increased. On the other side, bicyclists themselves face bigger financial penalties for violated Chicago's traffic rules as they apply to bicycles.

Attorney Mike Keating of Keating Law Offices is a former staff attorney for the Illinois House of Representatives where he was the Staff Attorney for the Judiciary - Civil Law Committee and the State Government Committee. Attorney Keating analyzed Mayor Emanuel's proposed amendments that the Mayor filed on May 8, 2013 at the request of CDOT Commissioner Gabe Klein. Attorney Keating's legislative analysis is as follows: 

Amendment to 9-4-025 Bicycle Safety Violation - Penalty

Current Law: The penalty for interfering with a bicyclist while turning, riding in the bike lane or passing, was $150.00 total. The penalty for causing a collision while turning, riding in the bike lane or passing was $500.00. The penalty for not exercising due care and interfering with a bicyclist was $150.00; the same act that results in a collision was potentially $500.00. The penalty for interfering with a bicyclist with a car door could result in a penalty of $150.00, a dooring that results in a collision could be a penalty of $500.00.

Amendment: Not yielding the right of way to a bicyclist while turning, riding in the bike lane, or not yielding the right of way while passing or otherwise interferes with a bicyclist could result in a fine of $150.00 for EACH offense. The same acts that result in a collision results in a mandatory fine of $500.00 . A dooring that interferes with a bicycle will carry a mandatory fine of $300.00; causing a collision in a dooring would result in a mandatory fine of $1,000.00.

Amendment to 9-40-060 Driving, standing or parking on bicycle paths or lanes prohibited

Current Law: No vehicle may impede a bike path or lane.

Amendment: Language is added to clarify that a bus may stop in a bike lane at a bus stop to loan and unload passengers, if the bus has an emergency, or during overnight hours as necessary in an intersection if it is easier to load or unload passengers at that location.

Amendment to 9-48-050 Buses - Stopping, standing and parking

Current Law: Only buses may operate in designated bike lanes.

Amendment: If a lane is marked for buses AND bicycles, then the bus must yield to the bicycle until it is safe to pass the bicycle and the bicyclist.

Amendment to 9-52-010 Rights and duties

Current Law: A person riding a bicycle who violates the Chicago Municipal Code would be fined $25.00.

Amendment: A bicyclist, unless specifically provided elsewhere in the Code, would face a fine of $50.00 to $200.00 for each offense.

Amendment to 9-52-020 Riding bicycles on sidewalks

Current Law: Bicyclists over the age of 12 should not ride on sidewalks.

Amendment: Bicyclists of any age may ride on the sidewalks outside of the Loop if the sidewalks is marked as a bicycle route, is used to enter the nearest street or to get to a bicycle sharing station.

Amendment to 9-52-040 Yielding right-of-way

Current Law: A bicyclist should ride as near as is practicable to the right side of the road.

Amendment: A bicyclist may ride as near as is practicable AND safe to the right side, meaning a bicyclist can move to the left to pass another bicycle, in order to turn left, to avoid hazards, or to navigate a right turn. A bicyclist may also pass on the right of a slower moving motor vehicle or bike. However, if a vehicle (i.e. cab) is letting out passengers from its right side, the bicyclist must yield to pedestrians or pass on the left. If the street is a one-way street with two or more lanes, the bicyclist may also ride alongside the left side of that one-way street. 

Amendment to 9-52-045 Bicycle operator's signals - Hand and arm - Manner

Current Law: This specific section as it pertains to bicycles is new.

Amendment: Adds precise language, specific to bicycles, as to the required hand and arm signals for a bicyclist. A left turn is with the left hand and arm extended horizontally; A right turn is the left hand and arm extended upward or right hand and arm extended horizontally; a stop of slow down is the left or right hand and arm extended downward.

Amendment to 9-24-030 Crosswalks - Pedestrians to have right-of-way

Current Law: Pedestrians have the right-of-way over vehicles at a plainly marked crosswalk at an intersection or between intersections.

Amendment: Pedestrians have the right-of-way over vehicles (including bicycles) at any crosswalk, plainly marked or not.

Amendment to 9-60-050 Pedestrian to yield right-of-way when

Current Law: Pedestrians had to yield right-of-way to vehicles unless crossing in a marked crosswalk.

Amendment: Pedestrians have the right-of-way over vehicles (including bicycles) anytime they are in a crosswalk, whether or not that crosswalk is marked.