Chicago bicyclists are no longer permitted to text or talk on a cell phone while riding a bicycle. On Wednesday, October 5, 2001, the Chicago City Council voted to ban talking or texting on a cellphone without a hands-free device while bicycling. The ban will go into effect in November 2011, and violators face fines of $20 to $50 for a first offense. Fines will increase for each subsequent violation. If the offense results in a traffic accident, the fine could be as much as $500.
In this article, Ald. Margaret Laurino (39th) who proposed the ordinance lauded the measure as “common sense” after having “seen people riding and texting with both hands.”
Texting or talking on a cell phone while riding a bicycle may seem to be a relative harmless activity, but it can be nearly as dangerous as texting while driving. Distracted bikers may swerve into oncoming traffic and trigger an auto accident between other vehicles on the road who try to avoid hitting the bicyclist. A distracted bicyclist could also collide with a motor vehicle on the road, potentially causing substantial injuries to the bicyclists and property damage to the vehicle.
It is also important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney if you have been in an auto or bike accident. The Chicago auto accident attorneys at Steinberg Goodman & Kalish are committed to promoting safe driving practices, which also includes safe biking practices as bicyclists share the road with motorists. If you or a loved one has been in a bike or car accident, contact the knowledgeable Chicago personal injury lawyers at Steinberg Goodman & Kalish to discuss a possible personal injury lawsuit.
Steinberg Goodman & Kalish (www.sgklawyers.com) is dedicated to protecting victims and their families. We handle medical malpractice, product liability, personal injury, wrongful death, auto accidents, professional negligence, birth trauma, and railroad law matters. Contact us at (800) 784-0150 or (312) 782-1386.
