Safety Tips for Chicago Pedestrians and Cyclists
Studies show that 164 pedestrians were killed in Illinois in 2005 alone, while another 64,000 were injured nationally. While the numbers have changed slightly over the years, pedestrians and cyclists are still at great risk for personal injury while sharing the road with other motorists. Learn how you can protect yourself with these safety tips for the pedestrians and cyclists of Chicago:
Stay on the Sidewalk
One of the best ways for pedestrians to stay safe alongside motorists and cyclists is to walk on the sidewalk whenever possible. If the sidewalk is absent or obstructed, then you’ll want to walk facing traffic so that you can see oncoming vehicles and potential threats. However, Chicago law forbids cyclists from riding upon any sidewalk in a district if they are over the age of 12—unless the sidewalk has been officially designated as a bicycle route.
Utilize Crosswalks
Pedestrians should always cross streets using designated crosswalks to avoid an accident or injury. This not only helps keep you safe and protects your rights in the event of personal injury, but is also required by Chicago law. For example, Chapter 9-60-060 of the City of Chicago’s Transportation Ordinances for Pedestrians states that pedestrians are prohibited from crossing a roadway except in a marked crosswalk.
Increase Visibility
Pedestrians and cyclists alike should increase their nighttime visibility by carrying a flashlight, utilizing bike reflectors, and wearing retro-reflective or light colored clothing.
Wear a Cycling Helmet
Cyclists should always wear a helmet that meets the nationally recognized safety requirements—whether riding alongside heavy traffic or within residential neighborhoods.
Pedestrian and cyclist laws are essential to promoting overall safety and defending your rights in the event of a personal injury or bicycle or motorcycle accident. If you’ve recently suffered an injury due to the negligence or fault of another, then our injury attorneys with Malman Law are here to help. To set up a free consultation, visit our website or call (312) 983-6193.
Disclaimer:
The materials available at this website are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Use and access to this website or any of the links contained within the site do not create an attorney-client relationship. The opinions expressed at or through this site are the opinions of the individual author and may not reflect the opinions of the firm or any individual attorney.
- Loading comments...