Motorcycles have the potential to be extremely dangerous. Riders are inherently exposed — and when accidents occur, the consequences can be devastating. Tragically, fatal motorcycle accidents remain a serious problem in Illinois and throughout the United States. Here, our Rockford, IL motorcycle accident attorneys review the data on deadly motorcycle accidents and we highlight some of the most important safety precautions that bikers should take to protect themselves.
Fatal Motorcycle Accident Statistics
Every year, around 5,000 motorcyclists are killed in crashes in the United States. Motorcyclists suffer severe injuries at a far higher rate than anyone else on the road. According to the most recent data from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), there were 3,505 motorcycle crashes reported in the state in 2016 alone. Altogether, 2,692 motorcyclists were injured in those wrecks. In other words, approximately 76 percent of motorcycle accidents resulted in an injury to the rider.
This is consistent with data from other jurisdictions. Sadly, there were also 154 reported motorcycle accident fatalities in Illinois in 2016. 
This means that 4.3 percent of all motorcycle accidents in Illinois are fatal. That is a shockingly high percentage of motorcycle accidents. To put that figure in the proper perspective, a motorcycle accident is nearly 30 times more likely to be fatal than a car accident.
Steps You Can Take to Prevent Motorcycle Accident Injuries
While motorcycles are associated with certain risks, there are also steps that riders can take that will dramatically cut the odds that they will suffer a severe injury. Before you get on a bike, it is essential that you take the proper safety precautions. If you are not ready to ride, you need to get additional training. Safety should always come first, among other things, all motorcyclists should be sure to:
- Obtain a motorcycle license and get adequate safety training;
- Inspect their bike and keep it in proper working condition;
- Wear a DOT-approved motorcycle helmet;
- Follow all traffic safety regulations; and
- Ride slowly and safely, in accordance with road conditions.
Of course, even if you comply with all safety protocols, there is still the possibility that you could end up in a serious accident. Following a major crash, you should be sure to seek guidance from an experienced Rockford, IL motorcycle accident lawyer.
Your lawyer will be able to take the proper steps to protect your health, safety, and legal rights. You deserve the maximum available financial compensation so that you can pay your medical bills and support yourself and your family.
Were You Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?
We are ready to help. At Tuite Law, our skilled Rockford motorcycle accident lawyers have over 50 years of experience representing injured victims and their family members. If you or your loved one was involved in a serious motorcycle crash, please contact our law firm right away for a free, fully confidential consultation. With an office in Rockford, we serve communities throughout Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. Call us at 877-965-5777.
