Illinois has stormed through another winter. Even if the occasional snow flurry does occur, a quick look at the calendar confirms that spring has finally arrived. This means that outside temperatures will begin to rise and flood more days with blue skies and sunshine. Additionally, warmer weather means that motorcycle enthusiasts will take their bikes out of winter storage to ride on the open roads.
Incidentally, with more motorcyclists on the road, the potential for fatal motorcycle accidents near Chicagoland also increases. To help prepare you for this new driving season, our Chicago motorcycle accident lawyers offer a few statistics and general rules of the road to note.
How Safe Are Motorcycles?
According to IIHS, motorcycle drivers and their passengers are 24 times more likely to die in a crash than people who are in other types of vehicles. Why? For these following reasons:
- Minimal rider protection
- Less visible and stable than cars
- High-performance capabilities
So, what can riders do to help reduce the chances of a fatal or serious motorcycle accident in Chicago? The quick answer: practice safe riding habits.
Related post: Why Most Motorcycle Accidents Happen in Intersections
Safe Rider Habits for Chicago Motorcyclists
Primarily, motorcyclists should always drive defensively when they are on their bikes. This includes staying observant and alert and trying to anticipate moves of any drivers around them. Additionally, it’s important to leave enough space between them and other vehicles. You never know when traffic may unexpectedly stop or slow down.
Wearing proper riding gear is also important when driving a motorcycle. Protective gear motorcyclists should wear at all times include:
- DOT approved helmet
- Jacket
- Riding pants/suits
- Boots
- Gloves
- Reflective gear (for night riding)
It should be noted that even though Chicago does not have a required helmet law, studies show that riders who do not wear helmets are three times more likely to suffer brain injuries in the event of a crash. Besides, not wearing a helmet also leaves you with a 40 percent increased risk of suffering a fatal head injury if you are in a motorcycle accident.
Safe Driver Habits Around Motorcycles
It is not just motorcycle drivers who should practice safe driving behaviors to help avoid motorcycle accidents. Automobile drivers should also watch out for motorcycles on the road, especially with warmer temperatures arriving.
As previously mentioned, drivers should also take efforts to leave plenty of space between their vehicle and any motorcycles. Further, prior to making a lane change, drivers should check blind spots. The same holds true when making turns. Since motorcycles are less visible, it’s best to double check to make sure there is not a motorcycle in your path.
Driving near a motorcycle in and around Chicago? Leave plenty of space between you and the bike. Changing lanes? Check your blind spot.
For instance, on April 25, 2019 a motorcyclist was hit by a vehicle in Morton Grove. The driver of the vehicle was attempting to make a left turn onto Oleander Avenue when it collided with the motorcyclist. The rider was critically injured and the driver was cited for failure to yield.
Injured in a Chicago Motorcycle Accident?
If you or a loved one is injured in a Chicago motorcycle accident, contact us today. We offer free consults and no fee unless you win. Moreover, we are available 24/7, rain or shine.You can reach us through our online form or our convenient LiveChat service, or by phone at 844-977-1900.