Chicago Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Although Illinois motorcycle accidents have slightly decreased in the last couple of years, they continue to result in thousands of injuries and fatalities. Statistics show that motorcyclists are approximately 26 times more likely than passenger car occupants to suffer a fatal injury in a collision.

In 2014 alone, there were 118 motorcyclists killed in Illinois, making up 11.6 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities that year. Additionally, there were almost 500 motorcycle accidents in Chicago that accounted for ten percent of all motorcycle crash injuries statewide.

Because motorcycles offer minimal protection when they collide with a car, truck, or fixed barrier, riders end up absorbing the impact with their bodies. The risk of damage increases significantly when a rider does not wear a safety helmet, which is not legally mandated in Illinois. In fact, motorcyclists are twice as likely to sustain a critical and/or fatal head injury without a helmet on.

When and Where Do Crashes Happen?

• Motorcycle crashes occur more often in urban areas of Chicago, but they are also common in rural areas with unmarked, local roads.
• The highest number of injuries and fatalities results from accidents that happen on city streets, not on interstate or state routes.
• Accidents are most likely to take place during afternoon and evening hours, from 3 p.m. to midnight.

Fatal Chicago Motorcycle Accidents

• According to the 2014 Illinois Department of Transportation Crash Report, two percent of those involved in Chicago motorcycle accidents were killed, and 54 percent were injured.
• The majority of motorcyclists killed or severely injured were adults over the age of 45, presumably more seasoned riders.
• Approximately 43 percent of operators in fatal crashes tested positive for alcohol in their bloodstream (with a BAC of 0.01 or greater).
• Chicago motorcyclists killed at nighttime are four times more likely to be found with a BAC level above the legal limit of 0.08.
• Overall, the NHTSA reports that motorcycle riders in fatal crashes are more likely than drivers of other vehicles to be intoxicated.

How our Experienced Chicago Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Can Help

The aftermath of a devastating motorcycle accident can be scary and overwhelming. If you suffered a serious injury, you might be forced to take time of work, and burdened with unexpected medical expenses. Luckily, you don’t have to go through the process alone. The team of experienced Chicago motorcycle accident injury attorneys at Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. is here to help.

We maintain a track record of success in helping victims of motorcycle accidents recover the compensation that they deserve. If you were hurt due to someone else’s negligence, you should not have to pay for the damages. Our skilled attorneys will assess your case, determine the best course of action, and handle all the legal filings. In the past, our clients have received compensation for accident-related medical costs, hospital bills, car repairs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Our car accident attorneys serve clients throughout the Chicago area, including Aurora, Elgin, Hinsdale, Joliet, Naperville, and Waukegan. Contact the Chicago motorcycle accident attorneys from Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. today at (312) 236-2900 to schedule a free, one-on-one case evaluation, and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.