How Can Drivers Prevent Motorcycle Accidents and Injuries in Illinois?

 Posted on May 14, 2020 in Personal Injury

Now that spring has arrived, the weather is warming up in Illinois. After being required to stay at home over the past couple months, many motorcyclists are looking forward to hitting the open road, whether they will be commuting to and from work at an essential business or seeking a reprieve from being cooped up indoors. May is National Motorcycle Awareness Month, and advocates are working to make other motorists more aware of motorcycle riders and help reduce or prevent accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 5,000 motorcyclists were killed in traffic accidents in 2018. It is especially important for car and truck drivers to understand the safety challenges faced by motorcycle riders. Due to their lack of protection compared to vehicles, riders are more vulnerable to collisions and injuries. 

Illinois Motorcycle Laws 

There are certain laws that have been put in place to protect motorcyclists. In Illinois, a person must complete a required course and take a written and driving test before obtaining their motorcycle license. Additional requirements include traveling at the posted speed limit, wearing protective gear, and turning on headlights at all times, even during the daytime. Inclement weather such as rain, wind, and fog can reduce a cyclist’s visibility, so it is imperative that they take steps to ensure they are seen by other people on the road. 

Although Illinois does not require motorcyclists to wear helmets, they have been proven to help protect riders’ heads in the event of a crash. The following are a few other ways that a motorcyclist can reduce the likelihood of being involved in an accident: 

• Obey all traffic laws.

• Do not lane split.

• Wear bright or reflective clothing.

• Yield to pedestrians. 

• Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.

Negligent Driving Behaviors 

Even if a motorcycle rider takes precautions, it is impossible to control the actions of other drivers. There are many actions or behaviors behind the wheel of a vehicle that can cause a collision, including:

• Distracted driving

• Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol

• Speeding

• Drowsy driving 

Part of the responsibility that comes with having a driver’s license is being aware and alert at all times. This includes noticing and recognizing motorcycles as equals on the road. When drivers fail to do this, they may be held accountable for causing an accident and the subsequent damages experienced by a motorcyclist. 

Contact a South Side of Chicago Personal Injury Attorney

Any type of motor vehicle collision can have devastating consequences, and motorcyclists are likely to be seriously injured in a crash. In some cases, a victim may not be able to return to work while incurring steep medical bills, and this can lead to significant financial difficulties. At Kadzai Law Group, LLC, we are well-versed in the personal injury laws of Illinois, and we will help you establish liability for a motorcycle accident and recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Call a Hyde Park motorcycle accident lawyer today at 312-229-0050 to schedule your free consultation. 

Sources:
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?ActID=2017&SeqStart=22050000&SeqEnd=22150000
https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/motorcycle-safety