Chicago Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Our law firm often represents motorcycle riders who are injured in accidents caused by negligent drivers. Motorcyclists have little protection and are sometimes traveling at high rates of speed, which tends to make the accidents very serious. In 2008, motorcycle accidents accounted for only 1.2% of motor vehicle accidents in Illinois, but 13.4% of all the fatalities. Injuries often include damage to the neck & back, multiple broken bones, extreme bruising or road rash, traumatic head injuries or even death. If the driver of an automobile negligently hits a motorcycle rider and these injuries occur, the at-fault driver is liable for the physical injuries, pain and suffering, medical expenses, loss of income, disfigurement, loss of normal life, property damage, and any other loss related to the collision.

Bikers should immediately contact police if they are involved in an accident so a police report can be made. These reports typically include the identity of the parties involved, any potential witnesses, statements from the parties/witnesses, and diagrams of the accident and location. In my experience, it is best to involve the police immediately. Negligent drivers will sometimes admit fault at the time of the accident, but will later change their story if it is not documented by police right away. Also, a motorcycle crash can be a jarring experience, and the victim(s) may not be physically or mentally capable of understanding the gravity of the situation in its aftermath. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries that are not apparent at the time of the crash, and all riders involved should have the incident documented in case complications arise. It can be more difficult for lawyers to seek proper compensation without adequate documentation of the crash, especially if it is unclear who is at fault.

The injury lawyers at Abels & Annes recommend that you wear a helmet when riding, even though Illinois is one of only three states that does not require them. The NHTSA estimates that in 2008, helmets saved 1829 riders’ lives. Not wearing a helmet will not bar recovery against a negligent party, but it will often prevent serious head injury or death. In 2009, 82% of the riders fatally injured in Illinois were not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. One of the most common types of collision is where an automobile does not yield and turns left in front of a rider traveling through the intersection. The impact often sends the rider tumbling headfirst over the car, leaving the head and neck exposed for contact with the pavement.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

The following nationwide statistics were reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2008:

• 5,290 motorcyclists were killed and 96,000 injured nationwide.
• Motorcyclists made up 14% of total traffic fatalities.
• In 77% of accidents involving a cycle and a car, the car was located in front of the bike. Only 7% of motorcycle riders were hit from behind.
• 41% of two vehicle fatal accidents involved a car turning left in front of a motorcycle.
• 35% of fatalities involved speeding.
• From 2005-2008, 76.2% of all motorcycle deaths occurred on cycles with 750CC+ engines. Higher engine size correlates with an increased chance of fatality.

The following Illinois statistics were reported by the Illinois Department of Transportation in 2009:

• 130 motorcyclists were killed, making up 14% of all traffic fatalities while only 3% of registered vehicles.
• Since 1999, the amount of motorcycles registered has gone up 76%.
• The average age of a motorcyclist killed was 40, and riders over 45 made up 37% of all deaths.
• 86% of those killed were male.
• Weather is generally not a factor in Illinois crashes, as 93% occurred on dry pavement during a clear day.

If you or a loved one have been involved in a motorcycle accident, please contact a lawyer directly at 312-399-8988 - 24 hours.

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