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

Many messenger companies try to classify their messengers as independent contractors in order to avoid paying taxes and insurance on the employees, but that doesn’t mean that the messenger is, in fact, an independent contractor. With respect to my practice, this issue is most often hashed out after a messenger is injured on the job, and they are retying to recoup their lost wages and medical expenses.

While there is no statewide helmet law, many municipalities have municipal ordinances requiring helmets. If you are riding through any city with a helmet law and you have no helmet you risk being charged and convicted of a helmet violation. You should be aware of local helmet laws to avoid any trouble.

In Chicago there is a requirement that bicycle messengers have a helmet and safety vest: