With the increasing popularity of biking as a form of transportation and recreation, there has been an unfortunate rise in bicycle accidents in Illinois. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, there were 3,199 bicycle crashes reported in 2019 alone. Understanding the most common causes of these accidents is crucial in preventing them from happening in the future.

Lack of Bike Lanes

One of the most significant contributors to bicycle accidents in Illinois is the lack of dedicated bike lanes on many roads. Bicyclists are often forced to ride in close proximity to motor vehicles, which can lead to collisions. Additionally, drivers may be unaware of cyclists who are riding on the road since they are not used to sharing the road with them.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a major problem that contributes to bicycle accidents not just in Illinois, but across the country. Distracted drivers are more likely to fail to see cyclists, swerve into bike lanes, or simply not leave enough space between themselves and the cyclist. This can result in life-threatening injuries or even fatalities.

Failure to Yield

Drivers who fail to yield to bicycles are another common cause of bicycle accidents in Illinois. This can happen at intersections, crosswalks, or when turning onto a new road. When drivers fail to yield to cyclists who have the right of way, the results can be catastrophic for the cyclist.

Dooring

Dooring is the term for when a driver or passenger opens their car door into the path of a cyclist. This sudden obstacle can cause the bicyclist to swerve or collide with the door, leading to serious injuries.

Riding Against Traffic

Another common mistake made by bicyclists that can lead to accidents is riding against traffic. This is particularly dangerous because drivers may not be expecting bicycles to be coming from the opposite direction. Bicyclists should always ride with traffic and follow all traffic laws.

Conclusion

Bicycle accidents are a serious problem in Illinois, but by understanding the most common causes, we can take steps to prevent them. Dedicated bike lanes, reducing distracted driving, improving infrastructure, and following traffic laws are just a few ways to make the road safer for everyone. By working together, we can reduce bicycle accidents and make Illinois a safer place to bike.