Chicago Car Accident Lawyer Blog

NYDailyNews.com reports that a driver who caused a devastating 2009 collision may be held liable for the accident that left two individuals severely injured. Our Chicago car accident attorneys learned that the accident in question transpired in September of 2009 when the defendant driver was texting while driving and subsequently struck a couple riding on a motorcycle.

The couple both lost their left legs as a result of the accident. Ultimately, the driver pleaded guilty to three motor vehicle summonses from the accident; including: using a hand-held cell phone while driving, careless driving, and failure to maintain a lane. He was sentenced to $755 in fines and ordered to speak about the dangers of texting while driving at local high schools.

However, our Chicago accident attorneys that as a result of the horrific crash, the couple has launched a public campaign against texting while driving. Additionally, the couple has filed a lawsuit against the driver, as well as, the individual the driver was texting. Court documents assert that the woman the driver was texting knew her teenage friend was driving and continued to text him anyway despite the dangers posed by such practice.

The couple’s lawyer argues that even though the woman was not present in the vehicle at the time of the accident, she was “electronically present.” Additionally, her actions are comparable to an individual who enables someone to drive drunk. However, a Chicago accident attorney at our firm learned that a lawyer for the woman argues that as a text message sender, she maintains the right to assume that her text message would be read at a reasonable and safe time.

Up to date distracted driving statistics provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration further reveal how devastating this epidemic has become. As of 2010, the percentage of drivers who use a cell phone (whether talking or texting) has increased by 0.9 percent. It has been revealed that the level of hand-held cell phone use was higher among female drivers than it was for male drivers, all the while, younger drivers ages 16 to 24 were found to be more likely to use a hand-held cell phone.

Additional statistics provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show that in 2010 there were approximately 3,092 fatalities as a result of distraction-related accidents – although the number is probably much greater. Moreover, every year, roughly 6,000 deaths and nearly 500,000 injuries are caused by distracted drivers. Our accident attorneys in Chicago continue to encourage drivers to refrain from dangerous distracted behavior while driving in order to ensure that our busy roadways are a safe place to travel.

The statistics are sobering: Motorcyclists are 39 times more likely to be killed when in an accident than those in cars and trucks. Data from the National Highway Safety Administration repeatedly shows that, while the overall numbers of cars and motorcycle accidents have decreased in recent years, there is still a long way to go. That is particularly true when it comes to motorcycle safety. Our Chicago accident lawyers know that those on motorcycle riders are not only more likely to be injured when in an accident, but they are more likely to get into an accident in the first place.

The public still needs to focus more attention on motorcycle safety. That is why organizations across the country are honoring May as national Motorcycle Awareness Month. At a basic level, the awareness campaign is focused on getting all those on the road to look twice, check mirrors, and otherwise keep a better eye out for the motorcyclists who are sharing the road with them. Our Chicago motorcycle accident lawyers know that many local riders have been hurt (or even killed) when car drivers failed to see them when making basic maneuvers like lane changes and turns.

The American Motorcycle Association (AMA) explains that this month’s outreach program is an annual event in the motorcycle community that has been pushed through various gubernatorial and legislative promotions across the country.

May is the designated month because it represents a time when many parts of the country—including Chicago—will see riders emerge on the roadways from their cold weather slumber. Of course, this time of year is a boon for those who enjoy being on the road on their bikes. But it represents a danger, because car and truck drivers may be less familiar with the basic safety practices of sharing the road with motorcyclists.

The AMA CEO explained that “Many road users are not always mindful of those with whom they share the road, and an annual reminder is helpful for them to recognize the flow of motorcycles in traffic, and make extra efforts to watch for motorcycles.”

Each Illinois motorcycle accident lawyer at our firm knows that at the end of the day, so many motorcycle accidents are caused by one simple fact: car and truck drivers do not see motorcyclists. Much of this might be a basic awareness issue. For a variety of reasons, those in cars are more likely to keep a look-out for trucks and pedestrians, but there is less constant surveying for motorcyclists.

AMA officials explain that problems are particularly common at intersections. For example, looking twice at an intersection to ensure motorcycles are not coming or missed may save lives. In addition, it is important for other travelers not to follow too closely to those on bikes. All travelers need their space, and because bikes are smaller, there is a tendency to fail to provide the space needed to travel together safety.

We encourage all local travelers to use this month as another reminder to be on the lookout for motorcycles with which they are sharing the road.

See Our Related Blog Posts:

Naperville Man Killed in Motorcycle Accident

Illinois Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit Filed in Madison County Court

Yesterday, Examiner.com posted an article regarding several motorcycle safety studies published in the new Accident Analysis & Prevention journal. The studies examined why other drivers on the road do not acknowledge motorcyclists in the same way that they acknowledge other vehicles, how certain headlights can make motorcycles stand out more on the road, and finally how mirror use is related to car and motorcycle collisions.

The reports show that motorcycles with a certain T-shaped headlight set ups are more easily identified by other drivers. Although there was some lack of clarity regarding why other drivers on the road have difficulties acknowledging motorcyclists, the study did conclude that “dual drivers,” or drivers who operate both cars and motorcycles, are more able to recognize motorcycles on the road. The researchers who conducted the study believe that this could be potential evidence that other drivers on the road look at the motorcyclists, but fail to comprehend their presence by actually seeing them.

Furthermore, our Illinois motorcycle accident attorneys also read in the article that certain mirror-incorporated gear can help make the riders more noticeable. If the motorcycle drivers are wearing multi-colored, white, or bright reflective gear, they are more visible then if they were wearing all dark colors.

As posted in some of our previous blog entries, while motorcyclists need to work on making themselves more visible to other people on the road, cars and pedestrians also need to be more alert of motorcyclists’ presence on the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Association offers some tools that riders can use to make themselves more visible. As suggested in the article referenced above, certain retro-reflective materials, that are neon and lightweight, can be placed on clothing, helmets, and the motorcycle itself to make the motorcyclist visible to others on the road. Motorcyclists should also have some sort of bell or horn they can use when they see a car coming they can more easily make their presence aware.

Our Chicago motorcycle accident lawyers believe that studies like this will help other drivers on the road to be more alert of motorcyclists’ presence, and will hopefully reduce the number of accidents involving motorcycles and cars. While accidents are most prominent at intersections, drivers should always be on the look-out for people on motorcycles and other smaller vehicles, such as bicycles and scooters. We encourage our readers to stay alert and aware on the road, not only to pay more attention to signs and rules of the roads, but also the people that you share the road with.

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, in 2010 there were 131 motorcycle related fatalities, which is close to 15% of all motor vehicle crash related fatalities. This alarming statistic represents almost a 30% increase in motorcycle fatalities in the last decade. Of the 131 motorcycles related fatalities, only two of them were wearing a certified helmet, and 110 of the people killed were not wearing helmets at all. There are no laws requiring helmet use in Illinois but our Illinois motorcycle accident lawyers encourage that all motorcyclists use helmets, because they can potentially save lives.

Motorcyclists, because of the size of their vehicles and lack of protection, are most at risk for serious injury in an accident. Motorcyclists should wear helmets and reflectors to make themselves as visible as possible, helping other drivers on the road to notice their presence. Motorcyclists should also drive extremely defensively and cautiously. Because of their size, motorcyclists are hard to see, especially when on the highway, near trucks, in intersections, or at night. By paying close attention to road signs and signals of other vehicles, motorcyclists can avoid serious injury in an accident.

Additionally, car and truck drivers need to be aware of motorcyclists and do their part to avoid accidents. Truckers and drivers should always double check their blind spots before changing lanes and also keep an eye out for motorcyclists when turning. Making yourself aware of the presence of motorcycles can help you to avoid a possible accident with one.

What do you do if you are injured as a result of someone else’s mistakes on the road? Our Chicago motorcycle accident attorneys help injured motorcyclists and their families recover compensation for the harms caused. When they are involved in an accident, motorcyclists are often subject to more serious injuries. Accidents with other vehicles may cause them to fall off their bike, and can lead to serious brain or spinal cord injuries.

Injuries of this magnitude may result in significant medical bills, and lead to lifelong disability and the inability to work. If a motorcyclists’ injuries are the result of an accident caused by another driver’s negligence, the victim has right to hold all wrongdoers accountable in a court of law. Filing a lawsuit can not only help the motorcyclist receive fair compensation, but can also set an example for negligent drivers. If you or a loved one has been affected by an accident of this nature, please contact our Illinois motorcycle attorneys to discuss your potential case.

On Tuesday, WMBF News reported a story involving a motorcycle accident that lead two people to suffer extremely serious personal injuries. A motorcycle, with two passengers , collided into a stopped van. The motorcycle’s driver was not wearing a helmet, but the passenger was, and after police investigated, they concluded that the driver was under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Due to this finding, our Illinois motorcycle accident attorneys believe that many things could have been done to likely prevent such a serious accident from occurring.

As we have mentioned in previous posts, it is important that not only motorcyclists, but also all drivers, avoid driving under the influence. Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is dangerous because it makes the driver lose focus, and not as alert as they might otherwise be. Operating a motorcycle under the influence of drugs or alcohol is an especially dangerous combination, because there is an increased risk for serious injuries to motorcyclists because they lack the protection that a car offers.

In addition to staying sober, motorcyclists should also make sure to have the proper safety equipment. The National Highway Traffic Safety Association notes that it is crucial to have the correct eye protection, gloves, jackets and pants, shoes, and of course helmets. Bugs, dust, and rocks can get into driver’s eyes, making it hard to see so it is important to have safety goggles or a helmet with a shield in order to protect the eyes. If an accident should happen, it is very important for riders to be wearing clothing durable enough to protect them from abrasions, along with footwear that covers the feet and even part of the legs. Gloves can help drivers keep their hands more firmly on the steering controls.

In order to stay safe on the road, our Chicago accident lawyers once again remind motorcyclists not only to wear the proper protection, but to also avoid distractions and driving under the influence at all costs. Motorcycle accidents can have devastating effects on individuals and families, because more often than not, the injuries are severe and can be life-changing. We have seen many victims of motorcycle accidents sustain significant brain and spinal cord injuries, which may require a lifetime of medical care and assistance. If the accident was the fault of a negligent driver, victims can take action to seek fair and reasonable compensation. If you or a loved one have been involved in a motorcycle accident and suffered serious injuries, you may have a cause of action. Feel free to contact our motorcycle accident lawyers to discuss how we may be able to help you.

Over the weekend, the Chicago Tribune reported a Lake County motorcycle accident involving two passengers. A motorcyclist was driving, with his daughter as a passenger, when they hit a car while turning left. The motorcyclist was killed in the accident, and his young daughter was seriously injured.

Motorcycle safety information is not only important for motorcyclists, but also important for all drivers to be aware of how to operate safely when sharing the road with motorcyclists. Although in this accident it sounds like the motorcycle driver was at fault, in many instances motorcycle accidents can happen because drivers may not be able to see motorcycles, especially if their undivided attention is not on the road.

Also, this example highlights the importance of helmet use for motorcyclists. Although motorcyclists are not required under Illinois law to wear them, our Illinois injury attorneys strongly support helmet use. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2008 in Illinois, there were a total of 121 motorcycle riders killed. Of those 121 riders, only 25% were wearing helmets, and 74% were not. Though helmets cannot protect motorcyclists from all accident related injuries, perhaps if some of these victims had worn helmets, they could have had suffered less serious injuries. The article continues to say, “Helmets are estimate to be 37-percent effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle riders”. Motorcyclists are not protected by a hard exterior, like a car, so they must rely on their helmets and other gear (i.e. goggles, boots, gloves, denim, leather, etc.) for protection.

Another factor in this accident was that the motorcycle was making a left turn. Left turns are always tricky, especially at an intersection with a traffic signal. If a traffic light turns yellow while a driver is waiting in an intersection to turn left, there can certainly be a potential collision if drivers do not yield. The Illinois Rules of the Road claim that over half of all motorcycle accidents happen at intersections. They continue to say that the most common situation in which a motorcycle accident occurs is when an “oncoming automobile makes a left turn in front of a motorcycle.” Drivers should always watch for motorcyclists and other vehicles before turning left. Motorcyclists must follow the rules of the road just like all other drivers, and the Illinois Rules of the Road say that when turning left, always signal and follow traffic signs. The rules also say that motorcyclists should always yield the right-of-way to vehicles currently in an intersection, including checking oncoming traffic, even if it may be your turn to make the turn, in order to avoid an accident.

Continue reading "Lake County Motorcycle Accident Illustrates Importance of Motorcycle Safety " »

KSDK reported on a recent Illinois accident in which a young woman was killed while riding on the back seat of a motorcycle with a friend when their motorcycle struck another motorcycle that was making a U-Turn. Both drivers involved in the accident were injured, and the female passenger died from a serious brain injury. None of them had been wearing helmets according to The State Journal-Register. KSDK says that the investigation of the accident continues, and there are possible charges.

Although the state of Illinois does not have laws that require riders to wear helmets, our Illinois accident attorneys always encourage the use of helmets to riders, in order to reduce the risk of serious brain injury. When reviewing motorcycle helmet use in 2010 overall, the National Highway Safety Administration showed the use of motorcycle helmets nationally dropped by 13%, a significant amount. In the Midwest alone, motorcycle helmet use has dropped almost 24%. Twenty-one states to date (including the District of Columbia) have laws requiring motorists to wear helmets, however, Illinois is not one of them.

An issue that could play a role in this fatal motorcycle was that the woman’s fellow biker made a U-Turn, causing this accident. According to a report prepared by CTC & Associates for The Bureau of Highway Operations, Illinois driving laws that limit U-Turns state, “The driver of any vehicle shall not turn such vehicle as to proceed in the opposite direction unless such movement can be made in safety and without interfering with other traffic”. We do not know all of the circumstances surrounding the accident, but the other motorcycle driver may have performed an unsafe U-Turn.

We always encourage the use of safe driving practices for motorcyclists because they are especially vulnerable due to the lack protection these vehicles provide. The investigation in the motorists’ accident continues, but if it is found that either of the motorcycle drivers operated their bikes negligently, the victim’s family may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover damages for their loss.

Continue reading "Fatality in Montgomery County Motorcycle Accident " »

Recently, the SouthTown Star published an article detailing the unfortunate fatality of a female motorcycle passenger. The motorcycle collided with a vehicle that had improperly turned into traffic causing the passenger to get thrown from the motorcycle. Fortunately, both the driver of the motorcycle, as well as, the 85 year old driver of the automobile did not sustain any life-threatening injuries. The driver of the automobile was cited for failing to yield.

Regrettably, motorcycle fatalities are becoming more common with each year. With the popularity of motorcycles and the subsequent increase in sales, on top of, leaner laws for its users, the injury rate and death toll is substantial. According to TrafficSafety.org, in 2006 about 104,000 motorcycles were involved in crashes and the number has only increased in the years since. On top of that, roughly 80% of all motorcycle crashes injure or kill the motorcyclist. While helmets have been a proven necessity to help save a life, many motorcyclists refuse to wear them since they are not mandated by law.

Our Illinois accident attorneys cannot stress enough the importance of safety for drivers of all types of vehicles. Too many unfortunate deaths have resulted from motor vehicle accidents. It is important to follow all the rules and regulations of the road, for both automobiles and motorcycles. Follow simple steps such as wearing a helmet or a seatbelt could save the lives of you or your loved one.

Our Chicago injury attorneys know that the arrival of warm weather unfortunately also brings with it an increase in the number of motorcycle crashes in Illinois. As the temperature increases, more motorcyclists are on the road, and the number of fatalities multiplies exponentially.

The last reported statistics from the Illinois Department of Transportation – Division of Traffic Safety show that more than 50% of motorcycle accidents occur in the summer months. That means that more than half of the crashes are packed into only one of the four seasons. Now is the time when motorcycle safety information is especially important.

Just this month, the town of Rockford, Illinois was shaken by a major motorcycle accident in which the bike collided with a news-media SUV. According to the Rockford Register Star, the driver of the motorcycle, a 23 year-old citizen of Winnebago County, died ten days after the accident as a result of traumatic brain injuries.

Certainly motorcycles can be a lot of fun, but they can also be very dangerous if you aren’t well-prepared. In fact, 14% of traffic collisions involve motorcyclists, but motorcycles only account for 3% of registered vehicles in Illinois. So as a motorcyclist, what can you do to help prevent accidents?

1. Wear a helmet. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation – Division of Traffic Safety, approximately 82% of the motorcyclists killed were NOT wearing a helmet.
2. Drive in daylight and on week days. In 2009, 59% of the fatal crashes involving motorcycles occurred during the weekend.
3. Don’t drive a motorcycle if you are under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
4. Obey traffic signs and controls.
5. And pay attention. Weather and roadway surface conditions are generally not factors in crashes that result in motorcycle fatalities. In 2009, approximately 93% of such crashes occurred in clear weather, on dry pavement, so you should always drive defensively to increase your odds of avoiding a collision.

Enjoy the warm weather, but BE CAREFUL!

Continue reading "Summer Months Mean More Motorcycle Crashes in Illinois" »

Recently, WGNRadio.com posted an article detailing the report of a devastating Chicago Motorcycle accident. The victim was driving his motorcycle when he was fatally struck by a vehicle whose driver’s intoxication level was well over the legal limit.

Having just departed from a birthday party celebrating the 10th birthday of his twins, the 47 year old motorcyclist was on his way to work at O’Hare International Airport when a vehicle took a spacious left hand turn that caused a grave collision with the motorcycle. While the driver of the automobile passed a field sobriety test that was administered at the scene, a breathalyzer was not utilized until 4 hours after the accident. According to the police reports, the driver’s blood alcohol content was estimated to be between 0.084-0.123, exceeding Illinois’s legal limit of 0.08. This case, which is currently being brought to trial, recounts the drunk driver’s repeated DUI convictions, as well as, history of substance abuse which ultimately resulted in the revocation of his dentist license.

The overwhelming number of Illinois drunk driving accidents is a significant cause for concern. According to CyberdriveIllinois.com, which recently published an Illinois DUI Fact-book, stated that in 2009 alone 309 Illinois residents died as a result of a drunk driving related accident. In the United States as a whole, over 10,839 fatalities resulted from an alcohol related automobile accident. Fortunately, Illinois has been making strides to prevent alcohol related accidents. One of these strides is the implementation of Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID). The BAIID is a device that requires first time DUI offenders to pass a breathalyzer test in order for their vehicle to start.

Our Chicago accident attorneys at Levin & Perconti strongly advise against driving under the influence. Not only are you putting yourself in danger by operating a vehicle while intoxicated, you are putting others (whether drivers or pedestrians) at risk as well. With the summer months upon us and the 4th of July quickly around the corner, the probability of alcohol related accidents is on the rise. We recommend taking every precaution to avoid a devastating situation such as this one. In the unfortunate scenario that you or someone you know is a victim of a drunk driving accident, it is important to keep in mind that victims of DUI’s have the right to take legal action to hold wrongdoers accountable for their personal injury or loss of a loved one.

A southern Illinois man died yesterday following a motorcycle accident in Greene County, southwest of Springfield. As reported by KSDK News, the man was driving his motorcycle in the Illinois Route 108 around 3p.m. when the accident occurred.

The victim was driving behind a tractor on the two-lane roadway. He attempted to pass the slower moving farm vehicle and entered into the left hand lane before speeding forward. However, just as he was attempting to drive past, the tractor made a left hand turn into a farming area near the road. The motorcyclist was unable to stop in time, ultimately slamming into the front side of the tractor. The impact sent the driver flying off the motorcycle. Unfortunately, he was not wearing a helmet. He was pronounced dead at the scene by arriving emergency personnel. The driver of the tractor was uninjured.

Our Chicago car accident attorneys at Levin & Perconti send sincere condolences to the victims of this accident. Our years of legal work have repeatedly shown the consequences of these car crashes—the suffering it causes is staggering. For that reason, we encourage all drivers to take every possible precaution when traveling. Simple steps like wearing safety helmets and belts and driving at safe speeds for the conditions can truly be the difference between life and death. Risk on the road can never be fully eliminated, but simple steps decrease it tremendously. With the cost of injury so high, those steps are worth taking.

Illinois is one of the states that does not have a law requiring all motorcyclists to wear helmets while riding. In 2008 alone, there were over 5,000 deaths across the country that were attributed to motorcycle accidents, and the number of these accidents that end in fatalities are highest when the rider is not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. According to The Pantagraph, when motorcyclists are wearing a helmet at the time of a crash they are up to 37 percent less likely to be killed as a result of injuries sustained in the bike crash. The reason that helmets are so crucial, especially with motorcycles, is that there is absolutely no cushioning or protection to keep the rider from suffering serious head and brain injury, absent a helmet. To read more about how important helmets are in a motorcycle accident, please click on this link.

The reason that it is so surprising that Illinois has not yet put a helmet law into effect is that it is clearly known how effective helmets can be at saving lives in the event of a motorcycle accident. The state of Illinois is very strict on enforcing seat belts laws for riders in cars, and a helmet law could be enforced in a similar manner for motorcyclists. Illinois accident attorneys encourage all motorcyclists to always wear a helmet, and to make sure any passenger wears a helmet, regardless whether a law is passed requiring helmet use. The law would certainly help to ensure that more people wear helmets, thereby helping to reduce the risk of serious person injury or death in a motorcycle crash.

A motorcycle accident that occurred on June 11th caused one man to die from the severe head injuries that occurred when he was thrown from his bike. The accident occurred near Oak Forest on Interstate Highway 57 when the motorcycle driver attempted to pass a car and the front wheel of the motorcycle went off the edge of the pavement and dropped about 3 inches, causing the driver to lose control of the bike and crash. The victim was unfortunately not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash and that caused him to suffer severe head injuries which he was unable to recover from. According to Chicago Breaking News, there were no other people or cars involved in this accident. To read more about this Illinois motorcycle accident, please click on this link.

Motorcycle accidents can be very dangerous, mostly because the driver or passengers have nothing surrounding them to protect them if they crash. This is the reason why it is so important for motorcyclists and their passengers to always wear a helmet when on a moving bike. While many motorcycle riders believe that an accident will not occur when they are just going for a quick ride in the neighborhood or that since they have not crashed before that they will not crash now, according to a study funded by The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, most motorcycle accidents occur on short trips and close to the point of trip origin. Illinois accident attorneys remind you that even though Illinois does not require adult motorcycle riders to where a helmet, that accidents can easily occur even on a short trip and that the best way to protect yourself and your passengers is to require helmets everytime the bike is moving.

A Fieldon,IL motorcycle accident occurred on June 6th when a motorcycle driver tried to pass a car and the car being passed veered into the motorcycle's lane. The motorcycle then scraped against a guardrail and turned onto its side, causing the driver and passenger to be thrown from the bike. Both suffered serious personal injuries and were hospitalized in Jerseyville. The car who swerved into the path of the victim's motorcycle was not involved in the accident itself and did not even stop at the scene. According to The Telegraph, no citations were issued in connection with this Illinois motorcycle accident. To read more about this Illinois accident, please click on this link.

According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration's Annual Traffic Safety Facts report, in 2008 over 5,000 motorcycle riders were killed in motorcycle accident and accounted for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities in that year. Our Illinois injury attorneys remind riders that they are at a higher risk for being seriously injured in an accident because they are not protected by anything, like a driver of a car is. Therefore, it is very important for motorcyclists to be aware of cars' blind spots and be extra cautious when driving next to a car or passing a car. Similarly, we ask truck and passenger vehicle drivers to be cautious and always do head checks so as not to hit motorcycles which can easily be hidden in a car's blind spot. These small steps can make all the difference in the number of motorcycle accidents that occur each year, and can help keep motorcycle riding a safe and enjoyable activity for many.

During the summer months, the number of motorcycles out on the road increases greatly. With the influx of motorcycles rides due to the warm weather, it is important to remember certain safety tips to make sure this enjoyable pastime does not result in any serious personal injuries. Luckily, motorcycle riders seem to be exercising greater caution, as seen by the recent drop in motorcycle fatalities. According to Health Day, deaths on motorcycles have decreased about ten percent, which is the first decrease in the last eleven years. To read more about the recent drop in motorcycle accident deaths, please click on this hyperlink.

Experts believe that the decrease in fatal accidents is due to a variety of factors, including the economy, the poorer weather over the past year, fewer new riders, and state attention to safety programs. Many states have started to encourage and make laws that require that certain safety measures be taken while riding motorcycles. While it is not yet a requirement in every state to wear a motorcycle helmet when riding, many more states are requiring it and it is one of the most important precautions a rider can take. Given that motorcycles offer no protection in the event of a motorcycle crash, riders should always protect their heads by wearing a helmet. Additionally, Illinois accident attorneys remind riders to always drive only when the conditions are safe to do so and make sure to always pay attention to the road and your surroundings. Taking these few steps can make all the difference and ensure a safe and run ride!

Given the recent rise in temperature, more and more motorcyclists are on the road in Chicago. While motorcycle riding can be a very enjoyable hobby for many people, it is important to remember to always be safe and aware when operating or riding on a motorcycle. Taking a few simple safety precautions can be the difference between life and death in the unfortunate case of a motorcycle accident. To read about Share the Road Safely’s motorcycle safety tips, please click on this link.

The first and possibly most important safety measure that all motorcycle operators and riders should take is to always wear a helmet. Brain injuries are the most common injury with a motorcycle accident and wearing a helmet is a simple way to help avoid this type of injury. While helmets are not required in the state of Illinois, riders should take it upon themselves to always wear helmets. Since motorcycles are so small and do not really offer any protection it is important to be extra cautious and alert and always pay attention to the road. Additionally, be aware of were a truck’s blind spots are and make sure to stay out of these areas and make sure to always maintain a safe speed always following the speed limit of the area you are driving in. Before you get on your bike to go for a ride make sure that you have recently done a safety inspect on the bike. Please follow these few simple tips to stay safe and avoid traffic accidents!

Motorcycle accidents account for about ten percent of all fatalities every year and it is extremely important for all motorcycle riders to remember that safety is very important. Unfortunately, in Illinois there is no law requiring motorcyclists to wear helmets but it is crucial for anyone that wants to drive or ride on a motorcycle to understand the importance and safety in wearing a helmet. Illinois is one of only three states that have absolutely no helmet requirements, even among people younger than 18. Until this legislation is changed and the law requires this extremely important safety measure to be taken, riders must make it a point on their own to make sure they and their passengers always wear a helmet. Motorcycle crashes can be very dangerous because the riders are not protected or surrounded the way they are in a vehicle and this is how so many traumatic brain injuries occur as a result of motorcycle accidents. Brain injury is what causes the most motorcycle related deaths, and if all riders would always wear a helmet the number of brain injuries would be greatly reduced. Traumatic brain injuries are injuries that cause the disrupt the normal functioning of the brain after a blow or some kind of startling jolt. According to The Brain Injury Association of America, wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of brain injury, following a motorcycle accident, saving as many as 1,500 lives a year. To learm more about the extreme dangers of motorcycle accidents, please click on this hyperlink.

Given the recent surge of warmer weather, more people are riding motorcycles and this safety issue becomes more prominent. Please remember that whenever you or a loved one gets on a motorcycle to always wear a helmet, so you can have fun safely!

An Illinois man was killed in a motorcycle accident that occurred on April 7th. The accident occurred on I-80 when the motorcyclist tried to brake while rounding a curve and lost control of the bike, causing the bike to throw the rider off and hit a guard rail. According to The Southtown Star, at this point the investigation has shown that there was no sign of alcohol but that the driver was speeding at the time of the horrible one-vehicle accident. To read more about this tragic Will County accident, please click on the link.

Motorcycle accidents can be very dangerous and new safety measures are constantly being taken to try to make them safer for riders. A recent study by the Highway Loss Data Institute has shown that a recent effort requiring mandatory training for riders is not nearly as effective at preventing dangerous motorcycles accidents as was hoped. The study compared accident statistics in states that required training to those in states that do not, and the numbers were not significantly different. Some argue that even if these programs are not being offered to reduce accidents, they are still important to teach new riders how to operate motorcycles before allowing them on their own on the road. An additional argument showing why they may still be important is that there are certain types of risky behaviors, such as speeding like in the New Lenox crash, that often cause accidents that will not be eliminated no matter how well a person knows how to properly operate and ride a motorcycle. While it is unfortunate that these measures have not been found to help prevent accidents, the New York Times Wheels Blog mentions that certain precautions taken do help prevent fatalities, such as antilock brakes on bikes and helmets worn by riders. The Chicago accident attorneys of Levin & Perconti urge motorcyle drivers and passengers to remember to always ride at a safe speed and to wear your helmet to avoid serious personal injuries.

A reporter and back-up anchor for the Chicago News, Tom Negovan, is expected to fully recover from serious personal injuries suffered when the motorcycle he was riding collided head-on with a motorist on Harlem Avenue. The man underwent two hours of spinal surgery to repair broken vertebrae. The WGN reporter also suffered multiple lacerations following the motorcycle accident. The reporter has many years experience riding a motorcycle and usually wears a helmet, but during the motorcycle accident he was not wearing a motorcycle accident. This case highlights the great need of wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle to diminish the risk of personal injury. To read more about the automobile accident, please click the link.

A woman was ticketed after her car and motorcycle collided near Palatine, Illinois. The automobile accident left the biker and his wife dead. The woman was ticketed for failing to yield from a private drive in an automobile crash that killed two. The car was leaving a gas station when it collided with the motorcycle. It is unclear whether the two were wearing helmets during the motorcycle crash. To read more about the wrongful death, please click the link.

An Illinois motorcyclist was killed early this morning in Chicago when his motorcycle was involved in a car accident. The car accident occurred when the victim struck a car that was making a left turn and had a green light. No citations have been issued in connection with this car accident. For more information on this Chicago motorcycle accident, click here.

A motorcyclist died early this morning following an automobile crash on the Far North Side of Chicago. The 52-year-old man was involved in the auto crash four days before he was declared dead following personal injuries. The man was driving a 2007 Harley-Davidson motorcycle when he struck a car driven by a woman who was making a left turn. The woman indicated that her traffic signal was green and no citations were issued after the automobile accident. To read more about the motorcycle crash, please click the link.

A car accident earlier tonight on the Kennedy Expressway left three motorcyclists and another person injured. This car accident occurred in downtown Chicago and seems to have been a chain reaction in which three motorcycles struck each other and then one hit a car. Luckily traffic was moving slowly and all the motorcyclists were wearing helmets so no one was fatally injured. All of the motorcycle drivers as well as the driver of the car involved in the car accident were taken to local hospitals for treatment of their personal injuries. For more information on this Cook County car accident, click here.

An Illinois man suffered personal injuries when he got into a car accident with a car driving in front of him. The motorcyclist was driving along when the vehicle in front of him swerved to avoid getting into a car accident with a car that was backing up in the driving lane of the highway. The motorcyclist then clipped the back of the car that was backing up and was forced to take his motorcycle down and was thrown off. For more information on this motorcycle accident, click here.

A lawsuit has been filed against a woman that allegedly sparked a chain-reaction accident in which an Illinois couple was killed in May of this year. This wrongful death suit has been filed, however the Illinois woman has not yet been criminally charged, pending the outcome of a traffic accident reconstruction report. The lawsuit claimed that the woman rear-ended a car that was then pushed into oncoming traffic, where a group of motorcyclists were passing and two of them were killed. For more information on this wrongful death lawsuit, click here.

A young Illinois man was injured in a motorcyclist accident in the Chicago suburbs on the afternoon of July 28th. The motorcyclist was driving at an excessive speed and then collided with a passenger car. The car driver was not injured, but the motorcycle driver was seriously injured and taken a local hospital. The motorcyclist was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, which may have led to more serious injuries. For more information on this motorcycle accident, click here.

A motorcycle driver was injured when he crashed into a construction barrel on the evening of July 26th in the Chicago suburbs. The motorcyclist was listed in serious condition after the accident forced him off the motorcycle due to the impact of the crash. Luckily, the motorcycle driver was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. For more information on this motorcycle accident, click here.

Illinois woman being held in jail after crashing her minivan into a motorcycle, killing the driver on the evening of July 9th. The driver was traveling west and allegedly crossed into the opposite lane and then struck the motorcycle. The motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene of the crime and was not wearing a helmet at the time the fatal crash occurred. The minivan driver was issued a ticket for failure to reduce speed and unlawful possession of a controlled substance after what was found to be cocaine was found in her vehicle. The tests have not yet come back showing if the driver had cocaine in her system at the time the car accident occurred. For more information on this fatal accident, click here.

Last summer in DuPage County, a motorcyclist was killed after a minor car accident. Following this car accident in which a sports utility vehicle rear ended a motorcycle, the driver of the car did not want to stop and wait for police and kept driving away when the motorcycle driver tried to stop him. When the car eventually stopped in a driveway, the motorcyclist pulled up behind him to talk and the car driver put his car into reverse and drove over the motorcyclist causing a fatal skull fracture. The driver did not report the accident and a witness was the one that identified the car driver. Following this fatal accident, the state charged the car driver with reckless homicide. The driver just pled guilty to the charge of failure to report an accident involving death and received a five-year sentence and in exchange for this the state dropped the reckless homicide charge. For more information on this fatal accident and settlement, click here.

A fatal car accident in South Chicago Heights early this morning left one dead. A motorcyclist collided with a car that was turning, and the motorcycles driver was declared dead at the scene after he was thrown from his bike. This fatal motorcycle accident occurred when the passenger car turned left in front of the motorcycle driver. The passengers of the car were okay with only the passenger suffering minor personal injuries. For more information on this fatal car accident, click here.

Early on the morning of June 6th, a fatal accident occurred when a deer ran into the road and a motorcyclist him. The driver of the motorcycle was ejected from the bike and died of massive head trauma. The driver was not wearing a helmet at the time of the fatal accident. Another motorcyclist was on a bike behind the original driver and only suffered minor personal injuries and he was wearing a helmet. For more information on this fatal accident, click here.

On May 31st, three Chicago-area men were killed in three separate car accidents, two of which involved motorcycles. The two motorcycle accidents resulted in the immediate death of the drivers, and the other accident involving a car resulted in the death of the driver as well. There is no further information on the cause of any of the crashes. For more information on these car accidents, click here.

On May 23rd, a motorcyclist made an illegal u-turn on I-57 causing a four-vehicle accident. The area where the motorcyclist turned around was reserved for emergency vehicles only, and when he made his turn he crashed into three motorcycles that were headed northbound. Two of the people involved in the crash were pronounced dead the night of the accident, and a third was pronounced dead the next day. The driver of the motorcycle that made the turn was not seriously injured and has been charged with disobeying a traffic control device. At this point there is no evidence that alcohol was involved in the accident. For more information of this four-vehicle accident, click here.

A husband and wife were killed when the motorcycle they were on was involved in a crash involving at least six motorcycles and three cars. The motorcycle accident occurred on Illinois Highway 47 and six other people were taken to the hospital with injuries. The car accident occurred when a car was rear-ended causing it to hit a large group of motorcycles in front on it (the motorcyclists were a group that was traveling together). The driver of the car that rear-ended the other cars that were stopped waiting for the motorcycles to turn, has been cited for failing to reduce speed. For more information on this car accident, click here.

A woman could face reckless homicide charges for a recent Lake Zurich accident. The collision killed a 56-year-old Lake Zurich woman who was riding her motorcycle when the accident occurred. The driver at fault admitted to painting her nails as she was driving. According to Chicago Breaking News, the crash occurred as the motorcyclist slowed down at a stop light. The driver did not see her because she was distracted and crashed into the motorcyclist. Distracting activities such as applying makeup or texting while driving draw the driver’s attention away from the road. Many car accidents occur each year because of driver distraction and in many cases, these accidents lead to serious personal injury or death. Read the full account of this deadly Lake Zurich accident.

Northern Illinois University recently offered a motorcycle safety class to teach motorcyclists what they can do to remain safe on the roads. As warmer weather approaches, more and more people will be hitting the roads on their motorcycles. According to an article in the Northwest Herald, five people were killed in motorcycle accidents in 2007 in McHenry County, IL. In order to prevent serious personal injury, motorcyclists must understand the rules of the road and wear protective gear such as helmets and long sleeves. The article notes that 80 percent of those killed in motorcycle accidents in Illinois were not wearing a helmet. Read the full article with safety tips to avoid a motorcycle accident.

Around 1 a.m. on April 16, a 22-year-old man from Aurora, IL was thrown from his motorcycle and killed. According to a report on Chicago Breaking News, the young man hit the median after losing control of the bike. A driver found him after the motorcycle accident, lying on the road with massive head injuries, and police pronounced him dead at the scene of the crash. The article notes that the motorcyclist was not wearing a helmet, a fact that may have contributed to his brain injury and subsequent death. If you would like to read more about this fatal motorcycle accident, please follow the hyperlink.

State police in Illinois have announced a program that aims to decrease the number of injuries and fatalities as a result of motorcycle accidents. The campaign will be aimed heavily at motorcyclists but will also educate motorists. The most important thing that a motorcyclist can do can is wear a helmet, along with other protective clothing such as long sleeves and boots. Wearing a helmet will help to reduce the risk of traumatic brain injury if a motorcycle accident occurs. Read more about the Illinois safety program to reduce motorcycle accidents by clicking the link.

If you or a loved one have been injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, we encourage you to contact Levin & Perconti at 312-332-2872 to review your case.

A lawsuit has been filed on behalf of a Madison County Illinois man who was injured in a motorcycle accident in 2007. The man was riding on his Harley Davidson motorcycle when a woman driving a car pulled out of a driveway and into the oncoming path of the motorcycle. As a result of this accident, the victim suffered injuries, pain and mental anguish. The lawsuit alleges that the woman was driving too fast and failed to control her vehicle. There is no indication in the referring article that she suffered any serious injuries during the accident.

Full coverage of the motorcycle accident can be found by following the link.

A jury recently awarded $1.85 million to a man who suffered serious injuries as a result of a motorcycle accident. He collided with an automobile after a delivery driver carelessly waved the vehicle into the path of the victim's moving motorcycle. As a result, the victim suffered significant injuries that required several surgeries. The lawsuit was brought against the company that owned the delivery vehicle.

During the trial, the victim’s attorney presented the case in front of a jury who found the company 100% responsible for the motorcyclists’ injuries. The jurors awarded the man for both past and future medical bills, as well as pain and suffering. Please follow the link to read more about this motorcycle accident.

Two separate motorcycle crashes on the North Side stretch of Lake Shore Drive in Chicago left two people dead. The first occurred near Belmont Avenue when a car and motorcycle collided. The 34 year old man was pronounced dead approximately 40 minutes after the crash. About three hours later, a motorcycle traveling in the southbound lanes of Lake Shore Drive near Oak Street scraped the center median which caused the female passenger to be ejected from the bike and thrown into the northbound lanes. Preliminary information indicated that another vehicle may have been involved in the crash, but that car’s role is not immediately known. The 33 year old woman died from injuries she suffered during the crash and was pronounced dead shortly after the crash. The male driver of the motorcycle suffered minor personal injuries and was treated and released. He was not cited for the crash. While both motorcycle crashes are being investigated, no lawsuits have been filed. To read the full story, click here.

A Mokena, Illinois man was killed after he lost control of his motorcycle and crashed near an onramp to Interstate Highway 57 in the south Chicago suburb of Markham. The motorcycle crash occurred early in the morning and the 38-year-old man was riding with another cyclist down 159th Street onto the expressway. The other rider told investigators that he and the man slowed their motorcycles when they saw construction on the highway and he believes the man may have lost control when he was blinded by construction lights. The man’s motorcycle slid on its side into a nearby grassy area. The man was not wearing a helmet and suffered head trauma. He was taken to a nearby hospital and pronounced dead. At this time, no lawsuits have been filed. To read the full story, click here.

An off-duty Chicago police officer was killed in a motorcycle crash in a Chicago south suburb. It seems as if she had lost control of the motorcycle and hit a street sign. The 40 year old victim was taken to the hospital where she was pronounced dead. The motorcycle accident happened at about 3 p.m. The police chief did not know how the motorcycle accident occurred or how fast the bike was traveling but it is believed that she was not wearing a helmet at the time. At this time no lawsuits have been filed. To read the full story, click here.

If you are personally involved in a car accident or witness one, please do the following:
1. Stop your car in a safe, well-lighted public place.
2. Help a person who has suffered injuries from car accident if necessary or requested. Protect the person from traffic, cover the injured person for comfort and to avoid shock. Do not move an injured person unless absolutely necessary. Call 911.
3. Warn other drivers, using flares if available.
4. Ask everyone involved for names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and license plate numbers.
5. Notify the nearest police station as soon as possible.

For more information.

Individuals on motorcycles are vulnerable to personal injuries in motorcycle accidents. Everyone should practice more caution in sharing the road with motorcycles in Illinois. More than half of motorcycle accidents occur at intersections. Watch for motorcycles and yield the right-of-way. Also, drivers involved in motorcycle accidents often report not seeing the motorcycle or seeing it too late. Include motorcycles in your visual search pattern.

A man was driving his motorcycle east on Chicago Avenue in Naperville, a suburb of Chicago, Illinois, when he struck a vehicle making a left hand turn. The motorcyclist, who was not wearing a helmet, is currently in critical condition after sustaining severe personal injuries. Both the driver and passenger in the struck car did not sustain any personal injuries. Police believe there could have been a second motorcycle involved that may have fled the scene. Police have not as of yet cited the driver for negligent driving or reckless driving. They do not believe speed was a factor in the automobile motorcycle accident and while no charges have been filed, the investigation continues. At this time, there have been no personal injury lawsuits filed, the motorcyclist remains in the hospital with serious personal injuries. To read the full story click here.

Deaths resulting from car accidents went down last year to roughly 51,000 – the lowest level in more than a decade. The fatality rate is 1.37 deaths for every 100 million miles traveled in 2007 was the lowest on record.

Motorcycle accident deaths, on the other hand, increased for the tenth straight year. There were 5,154 motorcycle deaths last year, compared with 4,837 in 2006.

What accounts for the decrease in automobile accidents? Experts theorize higher gas prices and a slowing economy. One expert said “fewer highway deaths is always the silver lining of a down economy.”

For the full article.

A motorcycle accident in Chicago, Illinois occurred when the motorcyclist crashed into another car. The car hit was waiting at an intersection to make a turn when the intersection accident occurred. The driver of the motorcycle was given citations for among several things a DUI; likely a ticket for reckless driving and for negligent driving. The motorcyclist experienced critical injuries and remains in the hospital. To read the full story click here.

A fatal motorbike accident left one youth dead and another critically injured after an accident on Chicago, Illinois’ northwest side. The motorbike crash involved a Suzuki Burgman bike and another car. An unknown citation was given to the driver of the car who claims that she was not a reckless negligent driver and was not at fault. The one youth injured was transported to the hospital with critical serious injuries from the motorbike crash. The crash caused the motorbike to crash through a store window. Workers at the Chicago, Illinois shop were boarding up the windows destroyed by the motorbike crash into windows at the store. To see the full story click here.

A Kentucky man has filed a personal injury lawsuit after a truck accident involving three motorcyclists that cost him his leg. The two other motorcyclists lost their lives in the accident. The surviving motorcyclist is suing for medical expenses related to the motorcycle crash. To date, the injured motorcyclist’s medical expenses are nearing $700,000.

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