John J. Malm & Associates Obtains $826,000 Settlement For Victim of Serious Bicycle Accident

When a Lombard cyclist was struck by a car backing out of a driveway without warning, the impact left him with severe injuries and a new reality. Recently, the Illinois bicycle accident attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates helped secure an $826,000 settlement for the injured cyclist—a testament to the critical importance of accountability on our roads and the power of evidence in achieving justice.

“A single moment of carelessness can lead to a lifetime of consequences for those who share the road with vehicles. In this case, we were able to secure a substantial settlement for our client, but no amount of money can fully make up for the physical and emotional toll he’s endured.” – John J. Malm, bike accident injury lawyer

The Accident: Cyclist Struck by Negligent Driver in Lombard

The accident occurred on a quiet Lombard street as our client was biking when, suddenly, a car backed out of a driveway directly into his path. The driver hadn’t checked for traffic, and our client had no chance to avoid the collision. The force of the impact left him with a life-altering neck injury, requiring a complex C1-2 spinal fusion.

While many may not realize it, accidents involving bicyclists are often devastating. Unlike drivers, cyclists have no external protection, leaving them vulnerable to severe injuries like broken bones, traumatic head injuries, or—as in this case—significant spinal damage. For our client, the consequences were life-changing, resulting in not only physical limitations and unrelenting pain but also an emotional and financial burden that affected him and his family profoundly. At John J. Malm & Associates, our top-rated Illinois bicycle accident attorneys regularly advocate for cyclists, who often face the most serious repercussions when they are hit by cars.

Compelling Evidence: Doorbell Video Captures Negligence

One critical piece of evidence in this case was a doorbell camera from a nearby home, which captured the exact moment the driver reversed out of the driveway and into our client’s path. The footage became a linchpin for our case, offering indisputable proof of the driver’s negligence. In many bicycle accident cases, determining liability relies on witness statements or post-accident reconstruction. But here, the video provided an undeniable account, showing how the driver’s failure to look resulted in our client’s injuries.

Evidence like this video is invaluable. It eliminated any ambiguity, reinforced our position, and left the insurance company little choice but to address the defendant’s liability. With this video in hand, we coupled it with detailed medical documentation illustrating the extent of our client’s injuries. Although the insurance company initially resisted a fair settlement, the evidence spoke volumes, and ultimately, we secured a settlement of $826,000. This amount allowed our client to focus on his rehabilitation, cover his medical expenses, and rebuild his life after such a catastrophic event.

The Impact: Financial Relief for a Life-Changing Injury

While financial compensation is essential, especially for someone facing ongoing medical needs and loss of income, money alone cannot replace a person’s physical well-being or return them to their pre-accident life. For our client, this settlement provided some measure of relief in facing the new realities of his life and meeting his ongoing needs.

Beyond the courtroom, this case also serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility we share on the road. Drivers must be vigilant and aware of cyclists and pedestrians, particularly when navigating residential streets and driveways. A single moment’s inattention—failing to check for traffic, forgetting to look both ways before backing out—can have severe, even life-altering consequences for those on bicycles. Cyclists are among the most vulnerable road users, and their safety relies heavily on drivers’ responsibility.

Our Commitment to Cyclists and Road Safety

At John J. Malm & Associates, we have represented many cyclists injured by negligent drivers and seen firsthand the toll these accidents take on them. It is our mission to hold drivers accountable and to help injured cyclists recover compensation that will enable them to rebuild their lives. This Lombard case highlights the importance of accountability and the real need for increased awareness around cyclist safety. As more people take to biking for commuting, exercise, and recreation, we hope this case serves as a reminder to prioritize caution, awareness, and respect for all who share our streets.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a cycling accident caused by a driver’s negligence, know that you are not alone. John J. Malm & Associates, with offices in Naperville and St. Charles, is dedicated to supporting injured cyclists and other accident victims. We understand the complexities and unique challenges of these cases, and we are here to advocate for your right to fair compensation and accountability. Contact our experienced Illinois bicycle accident lawyers today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you secure the justice and resources you need to move forward.