What To Do If You Were Injured While on a Rental Bike

You can sue if you were injured while riding a rental bike in Illinois. Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may be liable for your injuries. Identifying the responsible parties is crucial to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Rental Bike Accident?

The specific circumstances of your accident will determine who can be held responsible. Potential liable parties include:

1. The Rental Company:
   
   • If the bike was defective, poorly maintained, or improperly assembled, the rental company may be liable for your injuries.
     
   • Rental companies have a duty to inspect and maintain their bikes to ensure they are safe for customers. Failure to do so can constitute negligence.
     
2. The Bike Manufacturer:
   
   • If a manufacturing defect (such as faulty brakes or frame issues) caused the accident, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer.
     
   • Even if the rental company performed maintenance, a defect from the manufacturer could still make them partially responsible.
     
3. Another Driver:
   
   • If your accident was caused by another motorist’s negligence (e.g., speeding, distracted driving), that driver could be liable.
     
   • You may pursue a personal injury claim against the driver’s insurance company to recover compensation.
     
4. The City or Municipality:
   
   • If poor road conditions (like potholes or lack of bike lanes) contributed to your accident, a government entity might be liable.
     
   • These cases can be more complex, as they involve strict timelines and notice requirements.

Rental Agreement Considerations

When you rent a bike, you may be required to sign a liability waiver as part of the rental agreement. These waivers typically state that the rental company is not responsible for injuries or damages. However, in Illinois, liability waivers generally do not protect businesses from claims involving gross negligence or willful misconduct. If you can demonstrate that the company acted recklessly or intentionally, you may still have a valid claim. It’s important to know that:

1. Waivers Are Not Always Enforceable:
   
   • In Illinois, a liability waiver may not be enforceable if the rental company was negligent. For instance, if they failed to properly maintain the bike or knowingly provided a defective product, the waiver may not protect them from liability.
     
2. Negligence Trumps Waivers:
   
   • Even if you signed a waiver, it doesn’t necessarily mean you are barred from seeking compensation. Courts may find that a waiver is invalid if it attempts to excuse the company from liability for negligence or reckless behavior.
     
3. Consult an Attorney:
   
   • An experienced attorney can evaluate the waiver and determine whether it legally shields the rental company from your claim. They can also identify if any negligence on the company’s part voids the waiver.

How Our Attorneys Help with Your Rental Bike Accident Claim?

Our experienced attorney can evaluate the liability waiver to determine whether it legally protects the rental company from your claim. They will also assess whether any negligence on the company’s part voids the waiver. Rental bike accident cases often involve complex liability issues and multiple insurance policies, making legal guidance essential.

If you were injured while riding a rental bike, it’s crucial to understand your rights and take the appropriate legal steps. At our firm, we offer free consultations to discuss your case, assess liability, and guide you through the process.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.