The Law Offices of James M. Freeman, P.C.

Pedestrian/automobile accidents are some of the bloodiest accidents an attorney will ever see. Years ago I knew an undertaker who would never stand near a street corner becuase of all the people he had buried over the years who had been run down while just standing on the corner of a street waiting to cross. The law in Chicago is actually reasonably favorable with respect to pedestrians. Pedestrians have the right-of-way on sidewalks and in marked crosswalks unless the pedestrian has a red light or "don't walk" signal.

The law is clear, bicyclists are expected to adhere to traffic laws. If you do not you endanger yourself and others. Sure, the danger posed by a cyclist is somewhat less imposing than that of a car, but it isn't as if cyclists can't injure pedestrians or motorists. I have personally seen cases where cyclists were sued after they injured pedestrians.

Chicago's Bicycle Safety Ordinance is finally up and available on the web at the Chicago Department of Transportation's Chicago Bicycle Laws page.

The price of gas is driving a wedge between Chicagoans and their beloved cars. A lot of people are choosing alternative forms of transportation. Among other things, this means that we're starting to see a lot more mopeds and motorcycles on the roads.

Under Illinois law it is illegal to open your door into traffic:

It's the time of year when snow removal is an issue for everyone. It is important to remove snow from sidewalks. Clear sidewalks benefit everyone, and many people such as the elderly or those with disabilities can find it difficult if not impossible to negotiate a snow-filled sidewalk.

Reports must be filed in connection with any accident involving an injury, death or property damage in excess of $1,500 ($500 if there is no insurance coverage). See 625 ILCS 5/11-406 (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 11-406).

In Chicago we must look to the Chicago Municipal Code which reads in relevant part:

Bicycles are subject to the laws of the jurisdiction in which they are ridden. If there is no local statute to the contrary, Illinois law applies. Illinois state law allows bicyclists to ride two abreast.

See the relevant Illinois Compiled Statutes:

It is illegal to ride your bicycle on the sidewalk.

See Chicago Muni Code ...