$826,000 Recovered for Injured Cyclist in Lombard: A Case of Negligence Caught on Video

The Accident: A Cyclist Struck by a Car in Lombard

On a quiet residential street in Lombard, Illinois, an unexpected and violent car vs. bicycle accident left one cyclist seriously injured. Our client was riding his bicycle down the road when a car suddenly backed out of a driveway without warning. In an instant, the client was struck by the vehicle, causing a severe collision that left him with life-altering injuries.

The driver, without properly checking for traffic, recklessly reversed out of their driveway into the street, directly into the path of the cyclist. What made this case especially compelling was the doorbell camera footage we obtained from a nearby home. The video captured the car backing out abruptly, providing clear evidence of the driver’s negligence and their role in causing the crash.

The Injuries: Life-Changing Impact for the Cyclist

Our client, who was lawfully riding his bicycle on a Lombard street, suffered serious injuries from the collision, most notably a neck injury that required a C1-2 spinal fusion. The damage to his cervical spine caused significant pain, loss of mobility, and left him unable to return to work. His recovery involved multiple surgeries, intensive physical therapy, and ongoing medical treatment.

Due to the extent of his injuries, our client was unable to care for himself or complete even the most routine aspects of daily life. The physical, emotional, and financial toll of the accident left him and his family facing serious challenges, making it all the more important for us to pursue justice on their behalf.

Injuries to Cyclists in Car Accidents Are Often Severe

When a cyclist is involved in a collision with a car, the injuries are often far more severe than those experienced by drivers or passengers inside vehicles. Cyclists have minimal protection against the impact of a car, which can result in traumatic injuries such as broken bones, head injuries, spinal injuries, and even fatalities. The force of a car striking a cyclist can lead to long-term medical issues, permanent disabilities, and emotional trauma, as was the case for our client. At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand how devastating these injuries can be, and we fight to ensure that injured cyclists receive the compensation they deserve.

The Evidence: Doorbell Video Proving Negligence

One of the most crucial pieces of evidence in this case was a doorbell camera mounted on a nearby home. The footage clearly showed the defendant’s car backing out suddenly and without caution, directly into the path of our client’s bicycle. The video captured the moment of impact, eliminating any doubt about who was at fault and solidifying our case against the negligent driver.

This type of visual evidence is invaluable in bicycle accident cases, as it not only establishes fault but also provides a clear narrative of the events that unfolded. In this instance, it was a key factor in holding the at-fault driver accountable for the severe injuries caused to our client.

The Legal Battle: Securing Justice for the Injured Cyclist

Armed with the doorbell video evidence and detailed medical records documenting the serious injuries, our legal team pursued a strong claim on behalf of the injured cyclist. Despite initial resistance from the defendant’s insurance company, we successfully secured a substantial settlement that allowed our client to cover his medical expenses and long-term rehabilitation needs.

In the end, we obtained $826,000 in compensation for our client. This settlement provided him with the financial resources needed to address his ongoing medical care. While no amount of money can truly restore what was lost, this outcome allowed our client to focus on his recovery and rebuild his life after the accident.

Why This Case Highlights the Importance of Strong Legal Representation

In this case, the doorbell video was a turning point. Without that footage, it would have been more difficult to prove the negligence of the driver and secure the compensation our client deserved. As attorneys experienced in handling bicycle accident cases, we understand the importance of gathering every possible piece of evidence to build a strong case for our clients.

“This case serves as a reminder that even a moment of carelessness—like backing out of a driveway without looking—can have life-altering consequences for a cyclist. Our client suffered a permanent injury that will impact him for the rest of his life. While we were able to fight and secure a large settlement, no amount can fully compensate a victim for the pain and loss they endure,” said John J. Malm.

Conclusion: Accountability and Justice for Cyclists

This Lombard car vs. bicycle accident case illustrates the devastating consequences of negligent driving and the importance of holding drivers accountable for their actions. Through our work, we not only secured financial compensation for our client but also ensured that the driver who caused the crash was held responsible for their negligence.

Contact the DuPage County Bicycle Accident Attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates

At John J. Malm & Associates, we are dedicated to providing skilled and compassionate legal representation for victims of serious accidents, including bicycle accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured due to the negligence of a driver, contact us today. With offices in Naperville and St. Charles, we are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.