Can You Ride a Bike on the Sidewalk in Illinois?

Many cyclists must ask an important question to protect themselves while riding: “Can you ride a bike on the sidewalk in Illinois?” In this state, there is no single law that prohibits this type of action. Technically, you can ride your bike on a sidewalk without facing state legal consequences. 

However, this is often not the case at the local level. Many counties, cities, and other municipalities restrict the use of bicycles on sidewalks. In some cities, only certain areas have restricted access to cyclists, while other municipalities may ban them entirely within their jurisdiction. 

Legal action after a bicycle accident involving a sidewalk can be confusing because of these varying statutes. At Chicago Bike Injury Lawyers, we help riders understand their rights and responsibilities wherever they are. Our attorneys will stand by your side during the claims process to protect your rights and fight for fair compensation. 

What Does Illinois Law Say About Cycling on Sidewalks

The Illinois Vehicle Code explicitly states that cars cannot be operated on sidewalks in any capacity (625 ILCS 5/11-1412.1) unless it is authorized as a temporary driveway (such as for construction). However, this law does not apply to any vehicle that is moved exclusively by human power (including a non-motorized bicycle or scooter). 

Therefore, as far as the state is concerned, a bike can be used on a sidewalk legally. However, the bicyclist must obey the standards that apply to roadways and walkways.

What Is the Right of Way When Riding Your Bike on a Sidewalk

Under state law 625 ILCS 5/11-1512, a bicyclist riding on a sidewalk must “yield the right of way to any pedestrian and shall give an audible signal before overtaking and passing such pedestrian.” You cannot ride a bike along a sidewalk or crosswalk where official traffic control devices prohibit the use of bicycles. 

Lastly, a biker has all the rights and duties applicable to a person who is also using the sidewalk or crosswalk. Paying attention to these details is crucial if you want to avoid liability for injuries to pedestrians on a sidewalk. 

For example, here are some scenarios where you may be liable for legal damages after a bike collision with a person:

• You fail to give an audible signal when passing a walker, and they turn into your path right as you pass abreast of them, resulting in a collision
• You do not yield properly to a person walking in a crosswalk, which is a violation of the state law
• You swerve to avoid a person walking toward you and end up hitting someone on your side of the walkway

What Are the Local Rules of the Road in Illinois?

Local ordinances govern whether bicyclists are allowed on sidewalks, as state law permits. Therefore, you must understand the rules and duties applicable in the municipality you are riding in. Let’s look at some counties and cities in Illinois and what local ordinances are in effect for biking on sidewalks. 

Kane County

Two cities located in Kane County are Aurora and Elgin. Aurora Municipal Code Section 27-267 states that no one can ride a bicycle on sidewalks in the business district. Additionally, anyone who is at least 15 years old cannot ride a bike on any walkway in the city. Human-powered bicycles are allowed on sidewalks in Elgin and are not considered vehicles. 

DuPage County

Under Naperville Municipal Code 11-4-3, bicycles can not be ridden on sidewalks in the central business district or shopping center. This is also true for Wheaton under Section 70-514. There are no specific laws against cycling on pedestrian walkways in Bolingbrook.

Winnebago County

Rockford is the most populous city outside of Chicago in Illinois. Under Section 16-77, cyclists over 16 years old cannot operate their bikes on any sidewalk unless otherwise designated for the use of cyclists by signs. 

Riding is also barred in the business district and the shopping center. Any cyclist who can legally ride on walkways is subject to the same duties and responsibilities as pedestrians, while yielding the right of way to them. 

Cook County

Multiple municipalities are located within Cook County, which is primarily known as the home of Chicago. Under Section 15-2-6, Oak Park cyclists can only ride on sidewalks in a zoning district if they are under 15 years old. Additionally, no cyclists are allowed on these walkways in the business district. 

In Chicago, Section 9-52-020 states that cyclists can ride on walkways along business streets if the path is specifically designated for bicycles. Otherwise, riders must stick to bike paths and lanes. 

Lake County

Waukegan is situated north of Chicago and has its own regulations for such use of sidewalks. Section 5-68 states that bicyclists can use these walkways outside of the business district, as long as they yield to those walking nearby. Additionally, riders must stick to the right side of the path when possible. 

Peoria County

Under Section 28-498, bicyclists in Peoria must adhere to the same traffic laws found at the state level if they are not riding on streets. This means they must exercise due care for pedestrians, avoid areas where posted signs prohibit riding, and give signals when passing or overtaking walkers. 

Secure Expert Legal Counsel

The circumstances surrounding a bicycle accident on a sidewalk can be confusing. Who is at fault for the injuries? Was the cyclist allowed to be on the walkway? Did the biker conduct themself properly? The state and local laws that govern these situations are important, and our attorneys will help interpret them for your case.

Our legal services include:

• Investigating the accident scene, such as light conditions, the role of motorists, and the victims involved
• Assessing all legal damages
• Researching local codes relevant to the claim
• Gathering evidence of traffic signals, such as red lights and stop signs
• Negotiating with insurers
• Litigating in civil court
• Working on a contingency fee basis (you owe nothing unless we win)

Contact us today at 312-646-3708 to schedule a free consultation.