Motorcycle helmets help reduce head trauma and other serious injuries in motorcycle accidents. In most states, riders must wear helmets in some capacity. However, Illinois is one of three states without a helmet law.
Despite the lack of a legal mandate, there are still many good reasons for motorcyclists in the Windy City to wear a helmet. If you’re a rider in the area, it’s important to learn more about helmet use in the state, as well as how a Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer from Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys can help you after a crash. Contact us today at (855) 585-1310 for a free consultation.
How Can Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys Help After A Motorcycle Accident In Chicago, IL?
We have fought for the rights of crash victims throughout Chicago, Illinois, for over a decade. Our dedicated Chicago motorcycle accident lawyers bring decades of combined legal experience to the table and know what it takes to win big for our clients.
When you suffer a motorcycle crash injury due to a negligent driver’s actions, we can assist you in the following areas:
- Determining whether you have a valid claim and gathering evidence to help prove it
- Filing your claim and negotiating with insurers for a fair payout
- Fighting your case in the courtroom if we cannot settle the case through negotiations
A head or brain injury from a motorcycle accident can leave you with significant medical bills and a long-term recovery. Contact us to schedule a free consultation with a Chicago personal injury lawyer to discuss the compensation we can pursue under Illinois law.
Do You Have to Wear a Motorcycle Helmet in Illinois?
Illinois is one of the few states without a motorcycle helmet law. Riders generally are not required to wear a helmet, but some safety equipment rules may still apply, such as eye protection, unless the bike has a windscreen.
Even when a helmet isn’t legally required, not wearing one can still affect a claim if the insurance company argues your head injuries were worse because of it. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help push back against unfair blame and pursue full compensation.
How Helmet Use Can Affect a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Illinois
Illinois does not require motorcyclists to wear helmets. However, helmet use can still become an issue during a personal injury claim.
Insurance companies may argue that failing to wear a helmet made your injuries worse. While not wearing a helmet does not automatically prevent you from recovering compensation, it could become part of a comparative negligence argument.
Under Illinois’ modified comparative negligence rule, your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially responsible for your injuries. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can challenge unfair blame and work to protect the full value of your claim.
What Compensation Is Available After a Motorcycle Accident in Chicago?
If another driver caused your crash, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Future treatment and rehabilitation
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
The value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries and the available insurance coverage. A thorough investigation is critical to identifying all possible sources of recovery.
These damages are meant to help you rebuild your life after a serious crash.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Chicago
Motorcycle crashes often occur because drivers fail to notice riders or misjudge their speed.
Common causes include:
- Drivers turning left in front of motorcycles
- Distracted driving
- Failure to yield
- Unsafe lane changes
- Speeding
- Impaired driving
Even though Illinois does not mandate helmet use, drivers still owe motorcyclists a duty of care. When they violate traffic laws or drive carelessly, they can be held financially responsible for the harm they cause.
What If the Other Driver Claims You Were Partially at Fault?
After a motorcycle accident, it is common for the other driver—or their insurance company—to argue that you contributed to the crash. They may claim you were speeding, weaving through traffic, or otherwise riding unsafely.
In Illinois, modified comparative negligence applies. This means you can still recover compensation as long as you were less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if your damages total $100,000 and you are found 20% responsible, your recovery would be reduced to $80,000.
Because even small percentages of fault can significantly affect the value of your case, it is important to have strong evidence and experienced legal representation to protect your rights.
Contact Our Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Illinois law may not require you to wear a helmet, but your helmet use can protect both your health and your claim. If you were hurt in a motorcycle crash in Chicago, it’s essential to explore your legal options with the right advocate, whether you were wearing a helmet or not.
Contact the experienced team at Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys for a free consultation to find out whether you’re entitled to compensation today. Our Chicago motorcycle accident attorneys will fight for the compensation you deserve.
