Chicago Bicycle Accident Lawyer | Illinois Bicycle Lawyers at Keating Law Offices
Governor Pritzker’s Executive Order also known as the “Stay In Place Order” On March 20,
Governor Pritzker’s Executive Order also known as the “Stay In Place Order” |
An Executive Order under these circumstances is unusual in that disaster proclamations are most often scene in the wake of natural disasters like tornadoes and floods. However, given the scope of the coronavirus outbreak and its viral nature, Governor Pritzker was within his authority to take direct and immediate action. The Executive Order effectively controls the laws surrounding bicycling in Illinois during the pendency of the order. The order is currently in effect until Tuesday, April 7, 2020.
Non-Exempt Travel By Bicycle Is Prohibited
The Order prohibits all travel, including travel by bicycle, as a part of the general order for Illinois residents to remain at home. However, there are exemptions within the order. The exceptions are under “Essential Activities,” “Essential Government Functions” and “Essential Businesses and Operations.” In any event, the order also stresses that Illinois residents are to practice “social distancing” and to stay six feet from one another in the event they are permitted to leave their home. The exemptions related to bicycles are detailed below.
Bicycling To Obtain Necessary Goods Permitted
It is important to remember that Illinois residents may still travel to get necessary supplies or food for themselves, family members, or other members of their household. This even includes supplies needed to work from home or any items needed around the house for safety or cleaning. Grocery stores and hardware stores are allowed to remain open.
Bicycling for “Outdoor Activity” Permitted
as an “Essential Activity”
Presumably as a part of efforts to keep people in their homes as much as possible, while the order does specifically exclude bicycling as a part of unnecessary travel, the order does permit bicycling “for outdoor activity.” It appears that the order is making a distinction between a resident leaving their home to travel by bicycle when no exemption exists for them and riding a bicycle as a part of time spent outdoors. However, if one chooses to use a bicycle to get outside and get some fresh air. That is acceptable and after being cooped up inside your home – probably good for your mental as well as physical health.
Bicycle Shops Deemed an
“Essential Business and Operation”
Use Good Judgment
Keating Law Office Remains In Operation