What to Do if You Are Hurt in a Bicycle Hit-and-Run Crash

 Posted on June 17, 2025 in Car Accidents

A shocking number of people are the victims of hit-and-run accidents in Chicago every year, and Illinois law offers a route to hold the at-fault drivers responsible for their negligence. For bicycle accidents, the potential damages are often more severe, given the vulnerability of cyclists who share the road with motor vehicles. If you were struck by a car while riding your bike, understanding what to do after is critical for your claim, even if the driver ran. A Chicago, IL hit-and-run car accident attorney can help.

Steps To Take Immediately After a Bicycle Hit-and-Run Crash in Illinois

Most people know what to do in the immediate aftermath of an auto accident, but what you should do after getting hit by a hit-and-run driver is not always clear. Steps you can take if you are physically able include:

• File a police report: Remain calm and call the police right away. Having a police report on file is a strong piece of evidence for your personal injury claim.

• Document the accident: If you can, document the scene with photos or video to show the road conditions, signage, the surrounding area, and your injuries.

• Gather information from witnesses: Witnesses can play a critical role in hit-and-run accidents. If anyone around you saw what happened, request their contact information.

• Look for evidence left behind: Something as simple as paint that scraped off onto your bike could be useful evidence for the police.

• Seek medical attention: If emergency medical services arrive at the scene, comply with their suggestions for treatment, even if you feel like you are okay. If no one was at the scene to check you out, seek medical attention right away.

• Talk to an experienced personal injury attorney: Your attorney will investigate the accident to find evidence you can use to file a claim.

If the driver who hit you is identified, you can file a claim with their insurance or sue them for personal injury in local civil court. However, if they are not identified, you may need to file a claim with your own personal injury protection (PIP) insurance or your uninsured motorist policy.

Reasons Someone May Leave the Scene of an Accident

In general, people do not leave the scene of an accident without a reason. Often, it is because they do not have insurance coverage or because they were under the influence of drugs or alcohol and are afraid of the legal repercussions. Sometimes, they may be aware of warrants out for their arrest and do not want to interact with the police. Regardless of the circumstances, there is no valid excuse for leaving the scene of an accident, especially if someone was injured. If found, they will likely face criminal charges in addition to any civil action brought against them.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Chicago, IL Bicycle Accident Attorney

If you were injured by a negligent driver while riding your bike, and they fled the scene, you need to take swift legal action to protect your right to compensation. Contact the Chicago personal injury lawyers at Tomasik Kotin Kasserman, LLC to find out how best to approach your claim to ensure you receive the maximum recoverable damages. Call 312-605-8800 to schedule your risk-free consultation today. We bill on contingency, requiring no upfront fees to take on your case.