Motorcycles are fun, fast, and give riders a great sense of freedom on the open road. But with that freedom comes risk. Motorcycle riders are more likely to get into accidents than drivers of other vehicles. If you or someone you love rides a motorcycle, it’s essential to understand how common these accidents are and what you can do if you’ve been hurt in one.
In this article, we explain how often motorcycle accidents happen, why they occur, and what steps you can take after a crash, especially if you’re in Illinois.
How Common Are Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle accidents happen more often than most people think. According to national safety data, about 1 out of every 100 registered motorcycle riders will be involved in a crash yearly. While that may not sound like a lot, it’s much higher than the accident rate for cars and trucks.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that motorcycles account for only about 3% of vehicles, but are involved in around 14% of all traffic deaths. National data estimates that per mile traveled in 2022, the number of deaths on motorcycles was nearly 22 times the number in cars. That means motorcyclists are at a much greater risk of being hurt or killed if they crash.
In Illinois, motorcycle crashes are a genuine concern. On average, around 3,000 motorcycle crashes happen in Illinois each year, and many of them result in injuries or even death. This number may vary each year, but it shows that motorcycle riding comes with real dangers.
How Dangerous Are Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle crashes are more likely to result in serious injuries than car accidents. Riders don’t have the same protection as people in cars. This is because motorcycles do not have seat belts, airbags, or metal frames like cars do.
Because of this, motorcycle accidents often cause injuries like:
- Broken bones
- Head injuries or brain trauma
- Spinal cord damage
- Cuts, bruises, and road rash
Sadly, some of these injuries can last a lifetime. Some victims need long-term medical care and can’t go back to work. Many face emotional pain that affects their everyday life.
Who Is Most at Risk for Motorcycle Accidents?
New or young riders are often more at risk. Inexperience can lead to mistakes like taking turns too fast or failing to brake in time. Riders under the age of 30 are more likely to be involved in accidents than older, more experienced riders.
But age isn’t the only factor. Most motorcycle accidents happen on city streets, not highways. This is because urban roads have more traffic, intersections, and chances for drivers to make sudden moves.
Also, most accidents happen in good weather during daylight hours. This may seem surprising, but it makes sense: more people are riding during these times. So even when the weather is nice, riders should still stay alert.
What Happens After a Motorcycle Crash?
After a motorcycle accident, things can move quickly and feel overwhelming. The first step is always to get medical help. Even if you feel okay, it’s smart to get checked by a doctor. Some injuries may not show up right away.
Next, report the crash to the police and get a copy of their report, which is crucial for insurance claims or legal action. If another driver is at fault, their insurance should cover medical bills, repairs, and lost wages.
However, insurance companies may not always be fair, potentially blaming the rider or offering inadequate compensation. In such cases, a Northbrook personal injury lawyer can advocate for your rights and secure the necessary compensation for recovery.
How to Stay Safe While Riding
Although other drivers’ actions are out of your control, you can take steps to stay safe.
Here’s how you can reduce your risk of a motorcycle crash:
- Wear a DOT-approved helmet and protective gear.
- Take a motorcycle safety course to improve defensive driving skills.
- Avoid riding while tired, distracted, or impaired.
- Obey speed limits and use turn signals consistently.
- Stay visible and avoid vehicle blind spots.
While Illinois doesn’t mandate helmet use, safety experts strongly advise wearing one. Studies demonstrate that helmets significantly decrease the likelihood of fatalities (by approximately 37%) and head injuries (by nearly 70%). Although helmets offer substantial protection against severe head trauma, crashes can still inflict serious harm. Therefore, practicing caution on the road is crucial for your safety, enhancing visibility to other drivers, and preventing accidents.
Contact Our Northbrook Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Motorcycles can be a great way to get around, but the risk of getting into an accident is real, and injuries are often severe. Knowing that around 1 in 100 motorcycle riders are involved in crashes yearly shows why it’s necessary to ride carefully and understand your rights.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Illinois, speak with a Northbrook motorcycle accident attorney who understands the law and knows how to help crash victims. Getting legal help can make a big difference in how quickly and completely you recover—both physically and financially.
Contact Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers at (847) 513-9582 to schedule a free consultation with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer today.
