Motorcycle accidents can cause serious injuries because of how exposed and unprotected riders are. Unfortunately, motorcycle wrecks and their devastating effects are common in Illinois. Here’s an in-depth look at the most recent Chicago motorcycle accident statistics, and what to do if you’re involved in a crash.
Every year, roughly 80,000 motorcycle accidents happen across the nation. As many as 5,000 of those are fatal for the rider or passenger of the motorcycle.
The most recent fully analyzed statistics from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) cover 2021. That year, the total motorcycle crashes increased by 8.0% compared to the previous four-year average. It increased by 6.9% in a year-over-year comparison from 2020 to 2021.
There was also a 20.2% increase in fatal motorcycle crashes, compared to the previous four-year average. There was a 9.8% increase between 2020 and 2021. Of all motorcycle fatalities, 62.6% involved operators or passengers who were not wearing a helmet.
Cook County and Will County accounted for 33.3% of all motorcyclist fatalities. In Cook County alone, there were 47 motorcycle fatalities in 2021.
In Illinois, a total of 3,542 motorcyclists were involved in crashes. This accounts for operators and passengers of motorcycles. Of those, there were 2,381 injury accidents and 168 fatal accidents.
Motorcycle deaths in 2022 in Illinois amounted to 146 operators and passengers. More 2022 motorcycle statistics will be released towards the beginning of next year.
Motorcycle deaths in 2023, as of October 3, amount to 131. More 2023 statistics will be released in 2024.
Chicago motorcycle deaths are common because the riders and passengers have so little protection from a crash. When a typical motor vehicle driver is involved in a crash, they have airbags and metal all around them. However, a motorcyclist only has the protective gear they are wearing – if any.
Illinois motorcycle accident injuries are often severe or even fatal. The most common include road rash, broken bones, burns, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), neck and back injuries, spinal injuries, and more.
There are many potential causes of motorcycle accidents. While society often thinks of motorcycle riders as being risk-takers who are to blame for a crash, that’s not always the case.
The most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Illinois are:
Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other vehicles, and drivers often don’t look for them carefully enough. This can lead to accidents when drivers turn in front of motorcycles, change lanes without checking their blind spots, or pull out from intersections without seeing oncoming motorcycles.
Speeding is a major factor in all types of traffic accidents, but it is especially dangerous for motorcyclists. When a motorcycle is traveling at high speed, the rider has less time to react to hazards and is more likely to be seriously injured or killed in a crash.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is another major cause of motorcycle accidents. Impaired drivers have impaired judgment and reaction time, which can lead to serious accidents.
Reckless driving behaviors such as tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and running red lights can all increase the risk of a motorcycle accident.
Inexperienced motorcyclists are more likely to be involved in accidents than experienced riders. This is because they may not be familiar with the mechanics of their motorcycle or the hazards of the road.
Potholes, debris, and other road hazards can all increase the risk of a motorcycle accident.
If a motorcycle is not properly maintained or has a defective part, it can develop mechanical problems that can lead to an accident.
Rain, snow, and fog can all reduce visibility and make it more difficult to control a motorcycle.
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you should take several steps to protect your rights, including:
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, you should also contact a Chicago motorcycle injury lawyer. A personal injury lawyer can help you to get the compensation you need for your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
However, you have a limited amount of time. In Illinois, the statute of limitations (or deadline), for filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit is two years. If you don’t file a claim within that amount of time, you may forfeit your ability to get any compensation for your damages.
There are some ways that you can prevent motorcycle accidents and serious injuries, including:
If you are involved in a motorcycle crash, you need to find a reliable motorcycle accident lawyer in Chicago. Your lawyer can help you get the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. has a team of personal injury lawyers ready to help victims of motorcycle crashes in Chicago. We know that motorcycle accidents can cause serious and even fatal injuries. We can help you recover the maximum amount possible for your damages.
Our legal team understands Illinois motorcycle law and we will use it to help you. Call us at (312) 236-2900 or reach out via our online contact form for a free, no-risk consultation.
When you’re fighting for maximum compensation, we know what it takes to get it.
