Motorcyclists are extremely vulnerable on the roads because their bodies are more exposed, with fewer protective barriers to bear the force of a crash than other types of vehicles with enclosed frames.
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, motorcycle accidents have caused 57 deaths since the start of 2022.
Illinois motorcycle crash statistics
The most recent data from 2020 shows an increase of 10.1% in motorcycle crash fatalities since 2019. Additionally, motorcycle accidents accounted for 1.2% of all collisions and 12.7% of all deaths in the same year. These statistics include motorbikes, scooters, mopeds and motorized trikes. In Chicago, motorcycle crashes occur most often in urban parts of the city, but they also happen in rural areas and on local, unmarked roadways.
Motorcycle safety tips
Whether you are a novice or an experienced rider, motorcycle safety should be a priority every time you plan to ride. To prepare for a safe and enjoyable riding season, you should:
- Wear your protective gear, including leather pants and jacket, helmet and boots
- Watch the weather and avoid riding in rain, snow or ice
- Obey all traffic laws, use signals and remain a safe distance from other vehicles
- Be visible, observant and on the lookout for road hazards like gravel and potholes
- Take safety and advanced rider courses to brush up on your collision avoidance maneuvers
As a responsible motorcyclist, you deserve to feel safe and welcome on Chicago streets. If you are a party to a motorcycle accident, you should notify authorities and seek medical attention immediately.
