Avoiding an Illinois Motorcycle Accident: Tips and Advice

As Northern Illinois motorcycle accident attorneys, we see too much needless suffering on our state’s roadways. One moment you are cruising along on your bike, enjoying the ride, and the next, someone or something causes you to crash. And the results can be devastating, both physically and financially. Generally, motorcyclists are 35 times more likely to be fatally injured in a wreck than those in cars.

It is important to know how to protect yourself when riding your bike; too many other motorists simply don’t share the road responsibly and other road hazards are just as deadly. We want you to arrive home safely, so we are providing you with some useful tips on how to avoid a motorcycle crash.

The Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

In order to avoid accidents, it is important to know the causes of motorcycle crashes in Illinois. Here are some of the most common:

• Head-On Collisions: 76 percent of the time the car strikes the motorcycle head-on.
• Left-Hand Turns: In 42 percent of all wrecks, motorcyclists are struck when a car makes a left turn in front of them.
• Lane Splitting: When a motorcyclist rides between two lanes of slowed or stopped traffic, accidents occur.
• Speeding and/or Use of Alcohol: About 50 percent of the time accidents occur when a motorcyclist drinks and drives and/or exceeds the speed limit.
• Colliding with Fixed Objects: About 25 percent of motorcycle fatalities—compared with 18 percent of auto deaths—happen when the bike crashes into a fixed object.
• Road Hazards: Too many motorcyclists are injured when the road contains hazards such as slick surfaces, uneven pavement, patches of gravel, animals, potholes, or unexpected objects..

How to Avoid a Deadly Illinois Motorcycle Crash

Given the common causes of bike wrecks, it stands to reason that you can protect yourself from some of these dangers by doing the following:

• Wear a Helmet: Most every motorcycle safety organization urges all bikers to wear a helmet. Even though Illinois does not require that you do so, your chances of surviving a crash increase greatly when you protect your head.
• Never Drink and Drive: This one is a no-brainer. No matter what kind of vehicle you drive, alcohol seriously impairs your ability to do it well.
• Follow the Laws: While it may be tempting to crank it up and feel the power of speed on your bike, it is never safe. Other traffic laws exist to protect you. Know the law and stay within its bounds.
• Wear Visible and Protective Clothing: Simply put, you can’t trust other drivers on the road. Wearing bright colors and adequate padding can save your life.
• Be Alert: You should always scan the roadway around and ahead of you, ideally knowing what lies before you for at least the next 12 seconds. Also, use your signals and keep your headlight on, even during the day.
• Maintain Your Bike: Be sure you inspect your motorcycle regularly. Look for worn tires, electrical problems, burned out lights, and brake problems. Unless you are a mechanic, have a professional inspect your vehicle often.

If, despite all safety precautions, you or a loved one is injured in an Illinois motorcycle accident, you should contact an attorney as soon as you can. Located in the heart of Rockford, The Fisk & Monteleone Law Firm represents victims and their families with compassion, caring and experience. Call us toll free today at 815-962–0044 for a free initial consultation.