The Most Common Injuries & Causes in Chicago Cycling Accidents

Plenty of individuals ride their bikes in and around Chicago, either for recreational purposes or to get from point A to point B. Even though the city has made strides to increase bicyclist safety, the reality is that drivers (both local and visiting) often operate recklessly around bikes. Here, we want to examine some of the most common causes of bike crashes in the Chicago area, as well as some of the most common injuries that riders sustain as a result of the incidents.

Common Causes of Cycling Accidents in Chicago

Distracted Driving

One of the leading causes (though not a particularly surprising one) of cycling accidents is distracted driving. With the rise of mobile phone use, many drivers take their eyes off the road to send a text, make a call, or even check social media. In dense urban areas like Chicago, where there is a high volume of traffic and cyclists, this lack of attention can result in devastating crashes. Cyclists are particularly vulnerable to distracted drivers because they are smaller and harder to spot than cars.

Failure to Yield

Drivers failing to yield the right of way to cyclists is a common problem. This often happens at intersections or when making turns. In some cases, Chicago drivers may not be fully aware of the rights of cyclists or may not be paying close enough attention to cyclists on the road.

Dooring Accidents

Dooring occurs when a parked car’s door is opened into the path of an unsuspecting bicyclist. This is a frequent issue in cities like Chicago, where bikes often travel close to parked cars. Drivers and passengers who do not check their mirrors before opening a door can cause cyclists to ram into the door, leading to severe injuries. The risk of dooring is particularly high in areas with narrow streets or bike lanes located adjacent to parked cars.

Unsafe Road Conditions

Chicago’s roads can be challenging for cyclists, especially when there are potholes, debris, or poorly maintained surfaces, which can cause a bicyclist to lose control. Additionally, poorly designed bike lanes or the lack of adequate bike lanes force cyclists into traffic, increasing the risk of a collision.

Speeding

When drivers speed, they have less time to react to cyclists sharing the road. Speeding is particularly dangerous in areas with heavy pedestrian and cycling traffic, such as downtown Chicago. Cyclists involved in collisions with speeding vehicles are more likely to sustain catastrophic injuries due to the increased force of impact.

Common Injuries in Chicago Cycling Accidents

Head Injuries

Even when wearing a helmet, bicyclists can suffer concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and skull fractures. These injuries can have long-lasting effects, including cognitive impairment, memory loss, and chronic headaches. In some cases, TBIs can lead to permanent disability or death.

Broken Bones

Fractures are a common result of cycling accidents, particularly in the arms, legs, collarbone, and ribs. Cyclists often absorb the impact of a fall or collision with their extremities, leading to broken bones. Depending on the severity, some fractures may require surgery and extensive rehabilitation.

Road Rash

Road rash occurs when a cyclist slides across the pavement after a fall. While it may seem minor compared to other injuries, road rash can lead to serious infections if not treated properly. In severe cases, road rash can cause deep wounds that require skin grafts and long-term medical care.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are some of the most life-altering injuries cyclists can suffer. These injuries can occur when the spine is damaged during a crash, potentially leading to paralysis. Cyclists with spinal cord injuries often face long-term rehabilitation, medical expenses, and significant lifestyle changes.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries, including sprains, strains, and bruises, are common in cycling accidents. While these injuries are typically less severe than fractures or head injuries, they can still cause significant pain and discomfort. Soft tissue injuries can limit mobility and require physical therapy for recovery.