Should Illinois Implement Mandatory Helmet Laws For Motorcycles

All accidents have the potential of becoming fatal; however, motorcycle crashes are especially dangerous because the rider does not have a lot of protection when he or she comes into contact with another vehicle or the pavement. Helmets are a protective item that a rider can use to minimize injury in case of an accident, but not every state has laws that mandate wearing a helmet. With an increase in motorcycle accidents nationally, as well as at the state level, Illinois may have to reconsider such helmet laws.

Why Is There An Increase In Motorcycle Accidents?

In 2015, motorcycle accident deaths in the United States rose to 5,000, which represents a 10% increase and is the highest amount of fatalities since 2008. In the state of Illinois, there was a 24% increase in motorcycle accident deaths over those recorded in 2014. This data was generated from a study administered by the Governors Highway Safety Association.

The statistics are alarming, but the study advanced some possible reasons for the increase:

• There was an increase in travel across the country;
• There was a longer riding period due to better weather in 2015; and
• Lower prices at the pump also led to more miles traveled.

While these may be contributing factors, researchers believe that the increased fatalities in motorcycle related accidents are directly associated with the lack of mandatory helmet laws in 32 states.

What Are The Helmet Laws In Illinois?

Unfortunately, Illinois does not have any current laws that require the use of a helmet when riding. However, since motorcyclists are more at risk of death in an accident compared to motor vehicle occupants, the foundation exists for an outcry to mandate helmet wearing.

Helmets are part of a full set of safety measures that should be implemented by riders. Such measures consist of wearing appropriate attire, including bright clothing to increase visibility, obeying the speed limits, and not riding while intoxicated.

Studies have shown that wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the chance of death in motorcycle accidents. With mandatory helmet laws, riders would be forced to protect a vulnerable part of their body if they are involved in an accident.

Chicago Motorcycle Accident Attorneys With Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. Can Help

At Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C., we have years of experience helping clients who were victims of motorcycle accidents. In cases where there are fatalities, we have had to represent the victims’ estate in getting the financial compensation due to their family and loved ones according to the law.

If your spouse, child or other family member dies from a motorcycle accident, it can be a sorrowful and confusing time. It helps to have a lawyer on your side with the knowledge, experience, and the will to fight the insurance company on your behalf. At Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C., we understand that a death in the family affects individuals emotionally and financially. With this in mind, we are prepared to work long hours to investigate, research, and prepare a just claim.

Time is of the essence in fatal crashes. Call us today at (312) 236-2900 to schedule a free consultation.