I Was Hurt by a Stunt Motorcyclist in Chicago. Now What?
If you live in Chicago, you’ve probably seen the stunt motorcycle riders. They’re the groups who are speeding around the city, popping wheelies and generally giving a bad name to bikers who follow the laws.
The police are trying to crack down on motorcyclists who choose to engage in stunt riding while on the roadways. According to CBS 2 Chicago, “Rather than trying to stop the groups after they’ve started speeding through the city, police said they plan to keep track of the groups on social media, in an effort to stop large stunt rides before they start.” All of this is well and good, but people can still get hurt.
Today, we want to talk about what you should do if you’re hit and/or injured because of a stunt motorcycle rider, or if you see someone get injured by a stunt rider.
First, call the police or an ambulance
If you’re hurt, get help: call 9-1-1 immediately. Then, call the police.
Officers realize these stunts are dangerous and they tend to put everyone at risk, which is why they want other motorists and pedestrians to file police reports when they are involved in motorcycle accidents with these individuals.
Second, call your insurance company
Report the accident, especially if you sustained injuries. Tell your agent what happened, and take photos of your injuries and property damage as part of your documentation for your insurer. These photos could help you with your case overall.
Third, make a doctor’s appointment
Even if you don’t think you’re hurt, make an appointment with your doctor to ensure that you are truly okay. Sometimes, your adrenaline can keep you from feeling the true effects of your crash, and some injuries don’t present with symptoms right away. Get yourself checked out. If you did go to the hospital, make sure to make follow-up appointments with your doctor.
Fourth, call a Chicago personal injury attorney
Whether you are a driver, passenger in someone’s vehicle, a pedestrian, or another motorcycle rider, you should make it a priority to reach out to a Chicago personal injury attorney. Riders and pedestrians have an even greater risk of suffering from serious injuries, like TBIs or crush injuries, because they do not have the protective barriers that car have.
Being hit by a stunt rider can lead to serious injuries, and paying your medical bills while you are unable to work can be a challenge. We can help you make a claim for damages, so that you don’t have to worry about your financial future.
A quick piece of advice: avoid contact with any of the motorcyclists
The truth is that many of these motorcyclists are purposely trying to get a rise out of others on the road. They enjoy the thrill of doing stunts and evading the police. You do not want to engage in arguments with these motorcyclists because it could quickly make the situation even worse. If you have any concerns about your own safety, stay on the phone with the police while you wait for them to get there.
If you were injured by stunt riders in Chicago, Gainsberg Injury and Accident Lawyers wants to help you seek justice. To schedule your free consultation with a Chicago accident attorney, 312-600-9585 or complete our contact form.
Attorney Neal Gainsberg has spent the last 20+ years fighting to protect the rights of the injured in Chicago and throughout Illinois. For dedicated legal help with a personal injury, car accident, or wrongful death matter, contact Gainsberg Injury and Accident Lawyers in Chicago for a free consultation.