Chicago Doctor in Coma After Hit-and-Run Near Illinois Medical District

A shocking hit-and-run crash in Chicago recently left a doctor severely injured. The incident is a tragic reminder of the dangers cyclists face on the Windy City’s roads. As the victim starts his long recovery, the police are still looking for the driver responsible for the doctor’s injuries. Those injured by hit-and-run drivers may feel as though they have few options for collecting compensation to help them with their medical costs and other losses. However, this isn’t always the case. At Gainsberg Injury and Accident Lawyers, our dedicated personal injury attorneys can help those injured in hit-and-runs pursue compensation from any possible avenues.

A devastating hit-and-run in the heart of Chicago

The crash took place on October 29, 2025 at the intersection of Damen and Van Buren, near the Illinois Medical District. Reports indicate that a red 2010 Ford Fusion sedan struck the victim at about 4:30 p.m. The cyclist was identified as Dr. Ray Lee, a Chicago physiatrist who specializes in spinal cord injury rehabilitation. According to his wife, he was an avid cyclist and was heading home from work when he was struck. Although the car fled the scene, the police did identify the Fusion’s Illinois license plate, which was BN 64959. They are asking that anyone with information on the vehicle or driver come forward.

Despite wearing a helmet at the time, Dr. Lee suffered a severe brain injury and remains in a coma. Lee’s wife believes that the helmet, which cracked in the accident, saved her husband’s life. She also pointed out that while brain injuries heal, “it takes a very long time… months, possibly even years, before we can see if there is a full recovery.” It may take time before the full extent of the injuries related to this crash become apparent.

At Gainsberg Injury and Accident Lawyers, we’ve long advocated for cyclists, pedestrians, and commuters injured by negligent or reckless drivers. We join the Chicago community in wishing Dr. Lee swift recovery from his injuries.

About the hit-and-run investigation

Lee was reportedly thrown approximately 30 feet from his bike by the impact. Although he was conscious at the scene, he later lost consciousness. The Chicago Police Department (CPD) issued a community alert seeking the driver of the red 2010 Ford Fusion. The Lee family is also urging anyone with tips to come forward by contacting the police or submitting a tip anonymously to Chicago Crime Stoppers.

Although Chicago has bike lanes and safety campaigns, cyclists remain highly vulnerable to reckless or inattentive drivers. Gainsberg Injury and Accident Lawyers regularly represents cyclists injured in collisions caused by negligent drivers. Even cautious cyclists who do everything right can suffer catastrophic harm when drivers don’t meet the necessary duty of care.

Sadly, hit-and-run crashes specifically have been on the rise in Chicago in recent years, and they often involve vulnerable road users like cyclists and pedestrians. According to city data, 42% of deadly pedestrian accidents in Chicago in 2024 involved hit-and-run drivers, highlighting the serious scope of the problem.

The legal reality of hit-and-run bicycle accidents in Chicago

Illinois law requires that drivers involved in an accident causing injury or death must stop, remain at the scene, and provide information. Fleeing the scene can result in criminal charges and severe penalties, including prison time.

For victims and their families, it’s possible to pursue civil claims for damages even if the driver has not yet been identified. If the driver is found, it’s possible to file a claim against them for negligence. Even if they are not identified, the victim’s uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) under their own insurance policy may apply.

Steps victims and families should take after a hit-and-run

In the aftermath of a hit-and-run, if you’re able to, you should take the following steps:

• Call 911 immediately and get medical attention.
• Report the crash to the police and obtain the report number.
• Document everything, including photos of the scene, vehicle details, witness information.
• Contact your insurance provider to determine if your UM/UIM coverage may apply.
• Consult an experienced attorney to handle communication with insurers, even your own insurance company.
• Do not post about the crash on social media while the case is ongoing.

Your best move is to contact us as soon as you can. We can help you work through these steps. You don’t need to face this alone.

Compassionate advocacy for Chicago cyclists and their families

Gainsberg Injury and Accident Lawyers is located in downtown Chicago. Attorney Neal S. Gainsberg is a lifelong Chicagoan and experienced trial lawyer who’s recovered millions for injured clients. Our firm has a reputation for client-centered, efficient, and aggressive representation in cases involving bicycle, pedestrian, and motor vehicle accident claims. We routinely confront insurance companies that deny or undervalue claims. Call us today or fill out our contact form for a free case evaluation.