Timing Is Everything: How GPS Data Proves Liability in Chicago Bike Accidents

Preserving GPS evidence to support your bike accident claim

When a cyclist is injured in an accident, one of the most challenging aspects in pushing for compensation from an insurance company is proving what happened – and who was at fault. Insurance companies will often “side” with their insured driver even if the bicyclists and witnesses have a different version of events. Chicago cyclists rely on various safety practices to stay visible and safe, such as signaling turns, obeying traffic signals, and choosing bike-friendly routes. But despite these efforts, misunderstandings and false assumptions can still occur, often impacting an accident report completed by the responding police officer.

Fortunately, GPS data from fitness tracking apps like Strava can play an important role in helping cyclists prove their behavior during an accident. This data provides accurate, timestamped records of a cyclist’s route, stops, turns, and speed – information that can support injury claims and establish fault.

In cases where it’s your word against the driver’s, GPS data can be the deciding factor. When paired with an experienced Chicago bicycle accident attorney, this technology can be used to verify the exact timing and location of an accident, eliminating assumptions or mistakes that could prevent a cyclist from receiving fair compensation.

The role of GPS data in proving fault in Chicago bicycle accidents

GPS data collected by Strava or similar tracking apps can strengthen an accident claim in several ways. Beyond simple route tracking, these apps record detailed timestamps that reveal a cyclist’s movements leading up to an accident.

This data can confirm that a cyclist was obeying traffic laws, such as stopping at a stop sign, yielding at intersections, or signaling a turn, helping to counter any opposing claims of recklessness or failure to follow the rules. Here’s how these timestamps can help in various common situations:

Verifying stops at traffic signs. Cyclists in Chicago frequently face accusations of "rolling" through stop signs or not yielding appropriately. Timestamps can prove that a cyclist stopped, even if briefly, before continuing. If the GPS data shows a pause at a particular intersection, this can counter claims of reckless cycling or disregard for the rules of the road, supporting the cyclist’s claim that they followed proper safety protocols.
Confirming signals before turns. Chicago drivers can misinterpret cyclists’ hand signals, often leading to misunderstandings during left turns or lane changes. When a cyclist signals a left turn, Strava timestamps can show the moment the cyclist slowed down in preparation to turn. This timeline helps prove that the cyclist acted responsibly, contradicting claims of sudden or unexpected movements.
Reconstructing speed and position. In a bike accident case, details like speed and road position can reveal much about the cyclist’s behavior. Timestamps paired with GPS data can verify the cyclist’s speed before impact, supporting claims that they were not biking erratically or too fast. This data can be particularly beneficial when a driver’s insurance company claims that the cyclist was speeding or veering into traffic.
Confirming duration of stops at red lights. For cyclists, adhering to red lights and traffic signals is essential, and a failure to do so can quickly shift fault in an accident claim. GPS timestamps document the duration of pauses, making it easier to prove that the cyclist was obeying traffic signals at the time of the incident. This evidence counters any assumption that the cyclist ran a red light or was at fault.

Cycling accidents in Chicago can result in serious injuries like traumatic brain injuries and amputations. Many times, injuries are fatal. Accurate GPS data paired with legal guidance can substantiate your claim, counter misinterpretations, and simplify a complex claims process.

How to save GPS data after a bike crash

After a bike accident, the steps taken to secure GPS data can make a difference in a claim’s outcome and settlement offer. Preserving this data provides solid evidence of the cyclist’s behavior before, during, and after the accident. After a crash, cyclists can follow these steps to help ensure their GPS data remains intact and ready to support their case:

Immediately save ride data. As soon as possible after the accident, save GPS data by ending and locking in the ride on the tracking app. Apps like Strava often auto-save when motion stops, but it’s best to confirm that the data is securely stored and can be easily accessed later. This ensures that the complete ride details, including the route, stops, and timing, are safely preserved.
Avoid editing or modifying the data. Resist the urge to make any changes to the GPS data after the accident. Adjusting details like the ride start or end time, route, or any other elements could potentially compromise the data’s credibility in the eyes of insurance companies or legal representatives. Keeping the data unaltered is crucial to ensuring it’s accepted as reliable evidence.
Consult a lawyer before sharing the data. Before sharing GPS data with insurance companies, it’s essential to seek guidance from an attorney experienced in bike accident claims. A knowledgeable lawyer can assess the data and determine the best way to present it as evidence in a case. They can also help counter any pushback from insurers or opposing parties who might question the data’s validity.
Take screenshots of key data points. While the GPS data remains stored in an app, it’s wise to create a backup by taking screenshots of important data points, such as speed, stops, and route. These screenshots provide a reliable copy of the data in case the app deletes older rides, or data becomes otherwise inaccessible. Capturing screenshots immediately ensures bike accident victims have a ready reference for critical ride details if needed.
Organize and document contextual details. Alongside the GPS data, it’s helpful to record contextual notes about the accident. Riders should note the date, time, weather conditions, and any other relevant information that could help support the case. This documentation, paired with GPS data, can provide a comprehensive picture of the incident, reinforcing the claim.

While GPS data is valuable, it isn’t always straightforward to use it in a legal setting. Insurance companies may dismiss or challenge the accuracy of this data, and without a deep understanding of how to interpret and present it, key evidence can be disregarded. Working with a lawyer skilled in bicycle accident cases and technology can make all the difference.

With the right lawyer, GPS data can be key evidence in a successful Chicago Bike claim

By following these steps, cyclists can protect the integrity of their GPS data, creating strong, credible evidence to support their account of the accident. Taking the time to preserve this data, with the guidance of a knowledgeable attorney, ensures injured bicycle accident victims are well-prepared to face insurance companies and seek the full compensation they deserve.

Keating Law Offices has over 15 years of experience prioritizing justice for injured Illinois bicycle accident victims and their families. In the Chicago area, our case results include a $1.25 million recovery for the surviving family of a fatal bicycle accident victim and a $1 million recovery for a cyclist injured during a training ride.

If you were injured or a loved one was killed in a Chicago-area bicycle accident, give us a call at 833-CALL-KLO or contact us online for a free case consultation to learn more about your legal rights and legal options.

“I had a great experience working with KLO - I was hit by a car on my bike and I didn't think anyone would take my case. But they did and it was a great success! I got a very fair settlement in a reasonable amount of time. Plus they were all incredibly helpful! I send all my friends who need help to KLO.” - S.J., Bicycle Commuter and Bike Messenger

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