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Fall is a beautiful time to ride motorcycles in the Midwest, including along Lake Shore Drive and Sheridan Road. You may also have heard of the Tunnel of Trees in Michigan, a winding road under a canopy of large, leafy trees known for their breathtaking view. Or the Kettle Moraine drive in Wisconsin with steep ridges, sloping hills, and beautiful lakes. Along these routes, there are plenty of shops and restaurants, which adds to the rider's experience.

My motorcycle-riding friends tell me they love riding their bikes. They love the feeling of the fresh air in their face and the freedom they experience driving without being cooped up in a car. Fortunately, they are also aware of the need for motorcyclists to be particularly aware of their surroundings.

A few weeks ago, hours before Labor Day weekend began, at least four motorcyclists were seriously hurt in an accident on the northbound Tri-State Tollway near the Illinois-Wisconsin state line. On August 31, on the Far South Side of Chicago, one person was killed and another critically injured when their motorcycle hit the side of a van. On August 26, a head-on crash between an SUV and a motorcycle near Morrison, Illinois, led to two deaths and several injuries.

Motorcyclists risk more serious injuries, or death, because they are more exposed, not because they are dangerous, irresponsible drivers.

If you ride, enjoy your time on the road this fall, and please be careful.

On May 22, 2016, a 39-year-old man was traveling on Milwaukee Avenue in Glenview, Illinois, when he was hit by a car pulling out of a private driveway. Despite being in plain view on the roadway, the other driver never saw our client’s vehicle. Following the collision, our client was hospitalized for several days to receive treatment for a brain bleed, fractured ribs, and spinal fractures. After several rounds of unsuccessful physical therapy and spinal injections, our client underwent multiple low back surgeries.

Prior to the collision, our client was very active and worked as a mechanic. Although his recovery from the injuries has been relatively good, he is still unable to do many of the activities he once enjoyed and has been unable to return to work as a mechanic.

Lane & Lane Partner Scott Lane and Associate Attorney Nick Kamenjarin faced a number of challenges in this case, including issues related to the causation of several injuries as well as insurance coverage. Initially, only $1 million in insurance coverage was disclosed during the litigation. However, as a result of extensive motion practice and pure persistence, they were able to discover coverage well in excess of that amount.

The case was filed in Cook County and mediated with the Honorable Dennis J. Burke, (Ret.). The case settled at mediation for $2.8 million. We are pleased that our client was able to get the financial compensation and support that he needs and deserves.

Claire earned her Bachelor of Science in Family and Individual Development at Northern Illinois University. She became an attorney in order to have a greater impact on the lives of people experiencing a loss, earning her J.D. from The John Marshall Law School. Claire is a member of the Chicago Bar Association; Illinois Trial Lawyers Association; Illinois State Bar Association; American Association for Justice; and Woman's Bar Association of Illinois.

Although summer has come to a close, it’s likely that many of us will squeeze in a few more barbeques or family picnics before it gets too chilly. Please keep these safety tips in mind when food is part of your outdoor activities:

Following these guidelines will allow you and your family and friends to enjoy your final cookouts of the summer without any worries. So relish these remaining warm weeks, and don't be sad... it’s almost s’mores season! 🔥

On September 18-19 Artfest Michigan Avenue will be held for the fifth year in a row.

Foodies commence! On September 18 & 19, more than a dozen local eateries will try to claim the title of Chicago's "Best Taco." Lakeview Taco Fest in the Southport Corridor will feature beer and taco pairings, live music, and activities for kids.

Support the Nonprofit gallery and community space Pilsen Art House at their Pilsen Vendor Market as they host an indoor/outdoor market, featuring handmade goods by local vendors now through Sunday, October 17.

Open House Chicago is a free public festival in October offering self-guided history and architecture trails in more than 30 neighborhoods, Oak Park, and the suburbs of the North Shore. This year's event includes talks, virtual programs, tips and itineraries for exploring attractions in each neighborhood.

Here are 13 pumpkin patches in the region to check out for fall fun. Many of the venues include activities and apple orchards.

Rain or shine, a drive-in movie theater ensures a safe family gathering. Here are a few in the Chicago area along with details about costs and concessions.

Celebrate Chicago's cultural community and stop by one (or more) of the Night Out in the Parks now through the end of the year. Grab a friend or family member and check out engaging events and performances that support Chicago-based artists.

Questions? Call us at 312-332-1400 or contact us.