What Is the Average Bicycle Accident Settlement?

For many injured cyclists in Chicago, one of the first questions that comes up after a serious bike crash is, What is the average bicycle accident settlement? The answer depends on several factors, including injury severity, medical costs, and how clearly fault can be proven. At our Chicago law firm, we focus on representing bicycle accident victims and helping them recover compensation from the at-fault party and their insurance company.

Our personal injury lawyers have handled a wide range of bike accident claims, from low-speed collisions to crashes requiring extensive medical treatment. We understand how complicated the legal process can be, especially when you’re trying to heal while facing mounting expenses, emotional distress, and pain and suffering. We’re here to help you pursue a fair settlement and move forward with confidence.

Bicycle Accident Settlements Recovered by Our Chicago Bicycle Accident Lawyers

• $2,250,000 Settlement – While biking to her office in the Loop, Elena was struck by a hit-and-run driver and suffered a TBI. Her bicycle accident settlement came through her own uninsured motorist coverage. Delayed treatment risked long-term effects, but medical records and expert evaluations helped support the full value of her claim.
• $1,000,000 Settlement – Jasmine, 26, was riding along Milwaukee Avenue when a driver opened their car door into her path. The crash tore her rotator cuff, requiring surgery. Our personal injury attorneys cited the city’s dooring ordinance and documented ongoing physical therapy costs, helping to increase the final settlement value despite the insurance company’s early resistance.
• $760,000 Settlement – While stopped at a red light in Logan Square, David was hit from behind by a driver who blamed poor street lighting. The collision left him with multiple fractures and permanent shoulder damage. Our legal team used photos from the accident scene and lighting experts to challenge the driver’s excuse.
• $605,000 Settlement – Walter, age 72, was crossing a marked crosswalk near Grant Park when a commercial truck turned and struck him. He suffered broken ribs and internal injuries. The settlement reflected not just medical bills but also his vulnerability as an older cyclist and the company’s safety violations at the accident scene.
• $510,000 Settlement – Marco was cycling through an intersection in West Town when a driver made a sudden left turn and hit him. He suffered facial fractures and a mild TBI. The case focused on the driver’s failure to yield and the long-term impact of head trauma, helping secure a fair settlement.

What Is the Average Settlement for a Bike Crash in Chicago?

The average settlement for a bike crash in Chicago is approximately $641,729, while the median settlement is much lower, at $113,234. Bicycle accident settlements range from as low as $5,000 to as high as $8 million, depending on the circumstances of the case.

Example Bicycle Accident Cases Filed in Cook County

$8 Million Settlement After Teen Cyclist Killed in Dolton Police Pursuit

Kenyatta Brack Jr., 16, was riding his bicycle on Greenwood Avenue in Dolton when he was struck and killed by a fleeing driver during a high-speed police chase. His family alleged that officers from Cook County and Dolton acted with willful and wanton negligence by continuing the pursuit through residential streets at speeds up to 80 mph. The driver was not a suspect in a violent crime, and officers already had his license plate. The case settled for $8 million.

$5 Million Settlement for Elderly Cyclist Hit by Truck in Bellwood

Paul Zanoni, 75, was riding his bike in a marked crosswalk in Bellwood when a commercial truck turned right and ran over his foot, resulting in a below-the-knee amputation. Defense experts claimed Zanoni was traveling the wrong way on the sidewalk and didn’t stop before entering the crosswalk. Plaintiff’s team countered with expert analysis and state law. Zanoni’s loss of independence, medical treatment, and pain and suffering led to a $5 million settlement with the trucking company.

$3.5 Million Verdict After CTA Bus Hits Cyclist Near Construction Zone

Jacob Corre, 39, was struck by a CTA bus while riding his bike on a Chicago street narrowed by construction. He suffered a closed-head injury and permanent nerve damage to his arm. He claimed the bus driver attempted to pass unsafely. The CTA argued Corre caused the crash by riding too close. A jury found the CTA mostly at fault and awarded $3.5 million in damages, reduced to $2.625 million due to comparative negligence laws.

$600,000 Settlement for Cyclist Struck by SUV During Right Turn in Riverside

Carmen Gonzalez, a 49-year-old disabled woman, was hit by an SUV while riding her bike through a green light at Cermak Road and 17th Avenue in Riverside. The driver, distracted by construction, turned right on red and struck her. Gonzalez sustained a comminuted tibial plateau fracture requiring surgery and physical therapy. Her insurance claim included pain and suffering and loss of mobility. The driver’s insurance company paid a bike accident settlement of $600,000 before trial.

$335,335 Verdict for 74-Year-Old Cyclist Injured in Evanston Intersection Crash

Forrest Buchtel, 74, was hit by an SUV in Evanston while crossing Sherman Avenue on his bike. He suffered a concussion, cranial nerve palsy, and balance issues. The driver, working for an insurance company, disputed fault and the severity of injuries. The jury found the driver 51% at fault under bicycle accident fault rules and awarded $335,335 in damages. After reduction for comparative fault, the final bicycle accident settlement amount was $171,020.85.

What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Chicago Bicycle Accident Claim?

The value of a bicycle accident claim depends on the specific losses you’ve experienced. Damages are typically divided into two main categories: economic and non-economic damages. A skilled bicycle accident attorney will assess both when seeking compensation on your behalf.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are the measurable financial losses resulting from an accident. They are typically proven with bills, receipts, pay stubs, and other documentation.

Medical Expenses

Includes hospital bills, surgery, physical therapy, medications, and future medical treatment. Medical records and expert opinions help support these claims.

Lost Wages

Covers income lost while recovering, including time missed for follow-up care or rehabilitation. If the injury limits future earning capacity, that’s considered as well.

Property Damage

Repairs or replacement for your bicycle, gear, and any damaged personal items from the bike crash.

Out-of-Pocket Costs

Transportation to medical appointments, assistive devices, or home modifications related to your injuries.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages refer to the intangible effects of an injury. They are more subjective and vary based on how the injury impacts the person’s daily life.

Pain and Suffering

Covers the physical pain caused by the injury and any long-term discomfort or limitations.

Emotional Distress

Anxiety, depression, PTSD, or fear of riding again after the bicycle crash may be compensable.

Loss of Enjoyment of Life

If your injuries prevent you from biking, exercising, or enjoying previous hobbies, this may increase your bicycle accident settlement.

Disfigurement or Permanent Impairment

Visible scarring or long-term loss of function–especially involving traumatic brain injuries or facial injuries–can raise the value of a bicycle accident case significantly.

What Factors Impact the Value of Bicycle Accident Settlements?

Every bicycle accident case is unique, but several key factors influence how much compensation an injured cyclist can recover. Understanding these elements can help set realistic expectations for your bike accident claim.

• Injury Severity: More serious injuries–like fractures, spinal damage, or bicycle accident brain injuries–typically lead to higher settlements, especially when they require surgery, long-term care, or cause permanent disability.
• Medical Expenses and Lost Income: The cost of medical treatment, including future care, combined with lost wages, plays a significant role in determining a fair bicycle accident settlement.
• Fault and Liability: Illinois applies comparative negligence laws, meaning bicycle accident fault can directly affect how much compensation an injured cyclist receives. If evidence shows the cyclist shares responsibility for the crash–such as ignoring traffic signals or riding unpredictably–the insurance company may reduce the final payout.
• Insurance Coverage: A settlement is often limited by the at-fault driver’s insurance policy limits. If the driver carries minimal insurance coverage or is uninsured, the injured cyclist may need to seek compensation through their own uninsured motorist policy.

How Long Do Bicycle Accident Victims Have to Take Legal Action in Illinois?

Under 735 ILCS 5/13-202, bicycle accident victims generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline may bar you from recovering compensation. A bicycle accident lawyer can help ensure your claim is filed on time.

How Our Chicago Bicycle Accident Attorneys Can Help

Working with an experienced Chicago bicycle accident lawyer can make a significant difference in your case outcome. Our legal team understands how to build strong claims, gather vital evidence from the accident scene, obtain the police report, consult with medical professionals, and deal directly with the other party’s insurance company. Whether you’re recovering from severe injuries or facing long-term medical expenses, lost wages, or property damage, we focus on helping you pursue the full compensation you’re entitled to.

We handle every aspect of the legal process, from investigating fault to negotiating with insurers and, if needed, filing a bicycle accident lawsuit. We also coordinate with your doctors to ensure your medical records and treatment plans are fully documented. Our team has secured substantial bike accident settlements for injured cyclists across the city.

If you were injured in a Chicago bicycle accident, don’t wait to protect your rights. Reach out today to speak with an experienced attorney during a free consultation.

Contact Our Law Firm

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle crash, our Chicago traffic accident law firm is here to help. We understand the challenges cyclists face after a serious collision: physical pain, financial strain, and pressure from the insurance company. Our attorneys represent Chicago cyclists and are committed to securing the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost income, and long-term recovery.

We offer straightforward guidance and take the time to explain your legal options. Whether you’re ready to file a bike accident claim or just need answers after a crash, we’re available to listen and help you move forward.

Contact us today for a free consultation with a Chicago bicycle accident lawyer. There’s no obligation, and you won’t pay anything unless we win your case.