Ashland Avenue Bike Accidents in Chicago

Chicago Law Firm Helping Recover Compensation for Bicycle Injuries on Ashland Avenue

Ashland Ave is one of Chicago’s longest and busiest north-south corridors, stretching from the city’s Far South Side through neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and West Town, up to Rogers Park. The street is a major route for commuters and public transit, but for cyclists, it presents serious safety concerns.

Despite its high bike traffic, Ashland Avenue lacks consistent bike lanes, creating conflict between cyclists and fast-moving vehicles. Crashes involving turning truckers, driveways, and bus stops are all too common.

If you’ve been hurt in an Ashland Avenue bike accident, our Chicago bicycle accident lawyers can help you seek the compensation you deserve.

Why Ashland Avenue Is Risky for Cyclists

Ashland Avenue bike accidents often occur due to a combination of high traffic volume, inconsistent infrastructure, and limited protection for cyclists. Many parts of Ashland Avenue, especially near South Ashland Avenue, lack dedicated bike lanes, forcing riders to share space with buses, trucks, and cars. The mix of wide intersections, narrow shoulders, and frequent driveways increases the risk of crashes.

One tragic incident occurred in September 2024. Robert Levin was riding his bike south along Ashland Avenue near Wrightwood Park when a vehicle heading west hit him. He was pronounced dead after the hit-and-run incident.

This area is a known danger zone for cyclists. Other hotspots include intersections in Lincoln Park and near CTA bus depots, where heavy truck and rideshare traffic is common.

The Chicago Police Department regularly responds to bicycle crashes in this area, highlighting the urgent need for improved infrastructure and better enforcement to protect those biking along this busy corridor.

Common Injuries and Accidents Reported on Ashland Avenue

Cyclists involved in accidents often suffer serious injuries due to the nature of traffic crashes along this busy corridor.

Common incidents include right hook collisions, where drivers turn across a cyclist’s path, and sideswipe crashes from vehicles passing too closely.

Riders are frequently forced into the lane of traffic due to the absence of bike lanes, increasing the risk of being hit.

As a result, victims often sustain broken bones, concussions, spinal injuries, and in severe cases, traumatic brain injuries.

These injuries typically require emergency care, extensive recovery, and legal action to seek compensation for medical costs, pain, and lost income. Some are left with permanent disabilities, while others, like Robert Levin, tragically lose their lives.

Relevant Chicago Ordinances and Infrastructure on Ashland Avenue

Ashland Avenue is part of the Chicago Bike Network, but despite its significance, the corridor remains dangerous due to inconsistent or missing bike infrastructure. Under Chicago Municipal Code § 9-36-010(c), drivers must maintain at least three feet of space when passing a cyclist. Violating this rule is not uncommon on Ashland, where tight lanes and turning traffic create daily hazards.

The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) has proposed safety upgrades along portions of South Ashland Avenue, including improved pavement markings and signal timing changes for pedestrians and cyclists. However, Ashland currently lacks protected bike lanes for much of its length.

Enforcement of bike lane violations and right-of-way laws remains a key issue, especially in areas with heavy truck and bus traffic. Cyclists on Ashland continue to face high exposure to vehicle collisions, underlining the need for better infrastructure and legal protections.

Fault in Ashland Avenue Bicycle Accidents

Determining fault in Ashland Avenue bike accidents can be complicated due to the area’s dense layout and heavy vehicle activity. Many crashes happen when a truck driver or motorist turns right across a bike’s path without yielding, often at driveways or intersections with poor visibility. In some cases, the cyclist may be forced into traffic by parked cars or debris, leading to side-impact collisions.

Responsibility may fall on the driver, the business that allowed unsafe driveway access, or even the city if the infrastructure failed to meet basic safety standards. A thorough review of the police report, witness accounts, and video footage is often necessary to prove liability and pursue fair compensation.

Steps to Take After a Bike Accident on Ashland Avenue

If you’re involved in a bicycle crash on Ashland Avenue, taking the proper steps can help protect both your health and your legal rights:

Call 911 immediately – Report the crash and wait for Chicago Police to respond. Make sure a crash report is filed and request a copy.

Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor, go to the nearest emergency room, such as Rush University Medical Center or St. Mary’s Hospital, to be evaluated and documented.

Document the scene – Use your phone to take photos of the crash location, vehicles involved, your bicycle, injuries, and any bike lane conditions or obstructions.

Get witness contact info – Names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the accident can help support your claim later.

Don’t speak to insurers alone – Before discussing the crash with any insurance company, contact a lawyer who has experience in Ashland Avenue bike accidents.

How a Chicago Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help

After a bike crash on Ashland Avenue, having a knowledgeable Chicago bicycle accident lawyer can make all the difference. Your attorney will fully investigate the incident, review the crash report, interview witnesses, and secure video footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras.

They’ll also handle all communication with insurance companies, working to protect you from lowball offers or attempts to shift blame. Legal counsel ensures essential evidence, like medical records, photos, and documentation of unsafe road conditions, is preserved.

Most importantly, your lawyer will build a case that seeks full compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and the long-term impact of your injuries.

Secure Expert Legal Counsel Following a Bike Accident on Ashland Avenue

If you were hurt in a bike accident on Ashland Avenue, don’t face the aftermath alone. The risks along this busy corridor—from heavy truck traffic to unprotected bike lanes—demand legal help from someone who knows the area.

At Chicago Bike Injury Lawyers, we understand the unique dangers cyclists face and work aggressively to hold negligent drivers accountable. We offer a free consultation to review your case, answer your questions, and help you understand your legal options.

Call us at (312) 646-3708 or fill out our contact form to speak with a lawyer who can fight for the compensation you deserve.